ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The Tennessee Valley Authority’s Boone Dam project has been selected as the nation’s most outstanding geological engineering project by the nation’s premier professional association for scientists practicing in the fields of environmental and engineering geology.

TVA’s Boone Dam Internal Erosion Remediation Project was named the 2019 Outstanding Environmental and Engineering Geologic Project by the Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists. It is the highest honor presented by AEG and distinguishes projects based on select criteria, including: application of environmental and engineering geologic principles; advancement of public understanding of geology and engineering geology; protection of the environment; and enhancement of cultural understanding.

The Boone Dam project was specifically noted for its innovative use of georeferenced data, risk-informed decision making, and contributions to the practice of underground construction in dams.

“TVA is honored by this prestigious AEG recognition, and we are extremely proud of our Boone Dam Remediation Project team,” said David Bowling, TVA vice president of River & Resources Stewardship. “This award recognizes the knowledge, skill and execution of the engineering geologists and other team members who have worked together to successfully manage this project.”

Bowling accepted the award on behalf of TVA from AEG President David Fenster at a ceremony on Wednesday. The event also featured an overview by Boone Dam Technical Project Manager Chris Saucier and presentation by several project geologists, geoscientists and engineers.

“As contributors to the Boone Dam Remediation Project, our collective achievements are advancing the practice of our profession, as well as our everyday work to provide a higher quality of life for citizens of the Tennessee Valley,” Saucier said.

AEG helps promote public understanding of the geosciences and the highest levels of professional practice within engineering geology, environmental geology, and allied fields in the geosciences. The association also offers information on environmental and engineering geology useful to practitioners, scientists, students, and the public.

The Tennessee Valley Authority is a corporate agency of the United States that provides electricity for business customers and local power companies serving nearly 10 million people in parts of seven southeastern states. TVA receives no taxpayer funding, deriving virtually all of its revenues from sales of electricity. In addition to operating and investing its revenues in its electric system, TVA provides flood control, navigation and land management for the Tennessee River system and assists local power companies and state and local governments with economic development and job creation.