Utilizing the Land Monitoring Copernicus Program as a Regular Method for Observing Dams, Large Ponds, and Surrounding Areas

The increasing importance of water supply systems, particularly in drought-prone regions, and the construction of linear structures, like reservoir dams, have led to the need for adapting these structures to changing conditions. Proper management of dam risks is crucial, as their failure can have severe economic and social consequences. Aging dams, such as those in Spain, require effective monitoring strategies to identify structural issues before they become critical threats. In-person inspections are conducted for maintenance, but modern dams integrate monitoring devices. Satellite radar interferometry (InSAR) technology, specifically the European Ground Motion Service (EGMS), enables precise and non-invasive monitoring of surface deformations using Sentinel-1 satellite data. EGMS provides millimeter-scale precision data, offering insights into subsidence, landslides, and stability issues impacting infrastructure. It is a valuable tool for civilian users and dam managers, providing monitoring data without requiring technical expertise. The SIAGUA project in Spain utilizes EGMS to monitor dams and surrounding areas, providing surveillance information to dam managers.