New Podcast Episode: Case History #10, a Dam Shame

The latest episode in the GBA Podcast’s Case History series takes listeners inside a project where early geotechnical concerns were identified, recommendations were made, and warnings were repeatedly set aside, with costly consequences.

Hosts Elizabeth Brown, P.E. (JLT Consultants) and Abi Corbett (SME) examine GBA Case History #10, a project-management case involving a recreational lake system, restricted scopes of service, communication breakdowns, and litigation.

The case centers on a county government in Central California that asked a GBA member firm to assist during final design and construction of a large water-based recreational facility. Although the member firm proposed a broad scope that included geotechnical, shoreline-protection, soil-science, and environmental studies, the county limited the firm’s role to geotechnical advice and discouraged direct communication between the member firm and the A/E firm.

As the project moved forward, problems emerged including shoreline erosion, pavement failures, seepage, and ultimately years of litigation.

As Corbett notes in the episode, the case “highlights what happens when sound geoprofessional recommendations are sidelined or a role gets blurred.” Brown adds that “communication is just as critical on these projects as the engineering judgment and technical insight is.”

For geoprofessional consultants, the episode offers practical reminders about documenting recommendations and recognizing warning signs. The discussion does not simply revisit what went wrong; it helps listeners think through how similar risks can be recognized and managed on their own projects.

Listen to the full episode to hear how this case unfolded and what geoprofessionals can take from it. Listen HERE or wherever you get your podcasts.