Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Freeboard is a crucial safety parameter in the design of dams, embankments, and levees.
It serves as a physical buffer zone above the maximum designed pool level to protect the structure from hydraulic failures.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze Statement I:
Freeboard is defined as the vertical distance between the maximum designed water level in the reservoir and the top of the dam.
Its main purpose is to prevent water from spilling over the crest (overtopping) during high-wind waves, seismic activity, or unexpected flood inflows.
Since overtopping can quickly erode and destroy an earth-fill dam, maintaining adequate freeboard is critical for safety.
Thus, Statement I is correct.
Let us analyze Statement II:
When an earthen dam is constructed, the soil consolidates and settles over time, reducing the height of the crest.
Therefore, the minimum required freeboard must be maintained after all settlement has taken place.
Design engineers calculate the freeboard height relative to the settled top of the dam.
To account for this, extra height (settlement allowance) is added during construction, but the true freeboard refers to the post-settlement state.
Thus, Statement II is incorrect.
Step 2: Final Answer:
Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect.