Through this study we investigate the seismic response of Briones Dam in California by analyzing both earthquake ground motion records and ambient vibration data. We aimed to understand how the dam’s embankment behaves during seismic loading and whether ambient noise methods can reliably characterize its dynamic properties. Using a combination of HVSR analysis, empirical transfer functions, and 1D simulations, we identified consistent resonance features and show that ambient noise techniques can approximate dynamic behavior observed during earthquakes. The findings validate the utility of low-cost, non-invasive methods for dam monitoring and provide a baseline for future assessments. More importantly, this study lays groundwork for incorporating ambient-based tools in dam safety evaluations and long-term performance monitoring.
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