USDA-ARS Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit

Amount Appropriated?

$3.3M

FFID tracks stages 1–2 — stages 3–5 vary by agency, assistance type, and earmark structure.

Project Description

Internationally renowned USDA-ARS HERU scientists conduct physical model studies of dams, levees, spillways, channels, and grade stabilization structures. These models are constructed from various materials including wood, plexiglass, concrete, and metal. Scientific staff use 1940s vintage military excess buildings as its carpentry and machine shops. The size of the buildings is not conducive for constructing larger scale models that are often needed. If funded these funds would be used to construct a new single state-of-the-art energy-efficient facility to replace existing 1940s vintage shops. This project would provide a safer working environment and provide a more efficient space for constructing models. The construction of this new facility is crucial to the manufacturing of physical models to support the development of feasible solutions for the rehabilitation of dams across the state and the nation. This work will extend the life of thousands of lifesaving NRCS structures in the Stillwater community and across the nation. Additionally, this facility will also be of benefit to Oklahoma State University due to the research conducted by faculty and students at the unit alongside ARS scientists. This facility is crucial to ensuring that the USDA-ARS unit continues to be able to address the needs of Oklahoma\u2019s water resources and infrastructure as well as those across the nation.