Description Dams are important engineering marvels. However, if not built correctly, dams can cause catastrophic damage to our buildings, land developments, and the natural world. With this book, readers will learn about the different types of dams, the materials needed to build them, the steps to preparing the dam site before construction begins, and the designing process. Readers explore the many benefits of dams, such as harnessing the power of water to create electricity and diverting water for irrigation. A step-by-step project helps young engineers conceptualize how much work is involved in building a dam and how important they truly are.