In February 2024, Agate Construction Co, Inc. (Agate) was one of the contractors working to repair a dam, located near Federalsburg, MD. This notable dam plays a significant role in the local ecosystem and community, including recreational uses and local aquatic habitat creation. The dam was initially constructed to power a grist mill, which was a common use for many dams on the Eastern Shore. This mill no longer exists, but the dam remains a significant historical structure and was built across a tributary to Marshyhope Creek, resulting in the formation of Smithville Lake which now serves primarily for recreational purposes. This project is part of broader efforts to maintain and improve the infrastructure around Smithville Lake, with Agate Construction playing a crucial role, as they were responsible for significant site work and paving, including the installation of a drawdown pipe and access road. This work was essential for maintaining the dam's infrastructure and ensuring its continued safety and functionality.  

The primary objective of this rehab was to restore the reservoir to maintain a viable fishery pond close to the community of Whitefish and to provide recreational opportunities for hikers, picnickers, and anglers. Designed to achieve compliance with current Dam Safety Design Standards, the updates included embankment rehabilitation, concrete spillway removal, and a new rock-lined spillway design. 

During their portion of this undertaking, the experts at Agate used an ICE® 14D Vibratory Driver/Extractor from International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®) to drive some h-beams & sheeting. They also rented an ICE® EX-25 Rotary Drill paired with ICE® Leads for the installation of helical piles. The helical piles drilled by the ICE® EX-25 were used to provide deep foundation support for the Smithville Lake Dam. These piles are designed to transfer the structural loads to deeper, more stable soil layers, ensuring the stability and integrity of the dam and were particularly useful in this project due to their ability to be installed with minimal disturbance to the surrounding environment and their effectiveness in various soil conditions. Sheet piles & H-beams were driven with the ICE® 14D vibratory hammer to create a temporary cofferdam which allowed the construction team to work in a dry and safe environment by diverting water away from the work area. The ICE® 14D was particularly effective for this task because it could quickly and efficiently drive the sheet piles into the ground, even in challenging soil conditions. 

The recent rehabilitation project at Smithville Lake Dam on Maryland's Eastern Shore also included the installation of a new canal gate, which was a significant upgrade to the dam's infrastructure. The new canal gate was installed to improve water flow management and enhance the dam's safety and functionality, which is essential for maintaining the lake's water levels and ensuring the structural integrity of the dam. Agate Construction, known for their expertise in dam rehabilitation, managed the installation process. Their work involved precise engineering and careful coordination to ensure the new gate met all safety and operational standards and is part of a broader effort to modernize the dam's infrastructure, ensuring it continues to serve the community effectively for years to come. 

Agate Construction faced several challenges during the Smithville Lake Dam rehabilitation project. Like many dam rehabilitation projects, they encountered unforeseen conditions that were not documented in the original construction records. This required on-the-spot problem-solving and adjustments to the project plan. Adverse weather conditions often affected the construction schedule, and the installation of the drawdown pipe and access road involved complex technical work requiring precise execution to ensure the dam's safety and functionality. These challenges are common in dam rehabilitation projects and require a combination of expertise, flexibility, and effective risk management to overcome. Fortunately, challenging water control projects are all in a day's work for Agate's crews. International Construction Equipment, Inc. understands the need for powerful equipment our contractors can count on and congratulates the Agate Team on the seamless Smithville Lake Dam rehabilitation along Maryland's Eastern Shore, completing the project on schedule and within budget. ICE® looks forward to our next partnership! 

Learn more about the ICE® EX-25 Rotary Head, ICE® 14D or contact your local ICE® Sales Representative to discuss how ICE® deep foundation equipment can help your next project.  

Media Contact-                  
Pollyanna Cunningham, MA, MBA                 
Vice President Marketing, Brand and Media Relations     
Vice President IT and IT Comm             
ICE® - International Construction Equipment, Inc                  
Office - 704-821-8200          Email - marketing@iceusa.com