Campos Novos Dam, Embankment dam in Santa Catarina, Brazil.
Campos Novos Dam is an embankment dam that spans across the Canoas River and reaches a height of about 200 meters. The structure contains several turbines for electricity generation and forms an important part of Santa Catarina's power infrastructure.
The project started in 2001 and was completed after about five years, with substantial investment directed into construction. Shortly after finishing, integrity issues appeared that required additional work.
The dam shapes how locals see their region and draws visitors interested in engineering accomplishments. Many people in the area connect their daily work and routines to this large industrial installation.
The site sits in a heavily forested area that requires vehicles to reach. The best time to visit is during drier months when conditions are more pleasant.
Just months after opening, the structure experienced a tunnel collapse that caused water leaks. This unexpected crisis triggered intensive repairs that stretched over many months.
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