Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Niagara Falls Dewatered
Nov 27, 2019
In 1969, the Army Corps of Engineers shocked the world by turning off the water at Niagara Falls, leading to bizarre discoveries like bodies and a trove of pennies. The hosts delve into the geological marvels that shape the falls and the challenges faced during this daring project. They also discuss the environmental implications of recent dewatering efforts and community debates on preserving the falls' natural beauty versus managing erosion. From haunting finds to geological wonders, this tale of exploration is both intriguing and oddly humorous.
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Niagara Falls Rock Falls
- In the 1930s and 1950s, rock falls under Niagara Falls' American side left many boulders.
- Some worried about the unsightly appearance, prompting action to address the issue.
Dewatering Niagara Falls
- The Army Corps of Engineers devised a plan to dewater the American Falls to assess and address the damage.
- This involved building a cofferdam to divert water to the Horseshoe and Bridal Veil Falls.
Examining the Riverbed
- After dewatering, the Army Corps cleaned the riverbed, used dye to study water flow, and installed sensors.
- These sensors, called extensometers, measured rock movement to predict future rock falls.