Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Geoff explains the difference between a level sill spillway and a standard dam spillway, and why the right choice depends on slope, soil stability and water flow.
This video is taken from Geoff’s Online Permaculture Design Course, which includes weekly Q&A sessions where he answers student questions. Learn more about Geoff’s courses at: discoverpermaculture.com
Key Takeaways:
- Caven asks the difference between level sill spillways and normal spillways on the Zaytuna Farm water design legend.
- Geoff explains a standard spillway suits a large lower dam on solid ground, especially where the safe overflow path drops into the valley.
- A level sill spillway is useful on swales or dam extensions where overflow needs to be spread or moved away from vulnerable ground.
- Level sills give designers more choice over where surplus water leaves the system, especially on steeper or less stable sites.
To support us in creating more videos:
► Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/geofflawtononline
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► And most importantly, enjoy your permaculture journey!
About Geoff:
Geoff is a world-renowned permaculture consultant, designer and teacher who has established demonstration sites in many of the world’s major climates. He’s dedicated his life to sharing permaculture design and inspiring people to care for the earth, care for each other and return the surplus.
About Permaculture:
Permaculture weaves land, resources, people and the environment into a single, supportive system. It mirrors how nature works—no waste, no shortcuts, just smart relationships. The tools are wide-ranging: water harvesting, soil building, energy systems, forestry, natural building, aquaculture, appropriate technology, community development and more. Whether you’re on acreage or in an apartment, these principles scale beautifully.
#permaculture #spillway #dams #swales #waterdesign #earthworks
Geoff explains the difference between a level sill spillway and a standard dam spillway, and why the right choice depends on slope, soil stability and water flow.
This video is taken from Geoff’s Online Permaculture Design Course, which includes weekly Q&A sessions where he answers student questions. Learn more about Geoff’s courses at: discoverpermaculture.com
Key Takeaways:
- Caven asks the difference between level sill spillways and normal spillways on the Zaytuna Farm water design legend.
- Geoff explains a standard spillway suits a large lower dam on solid ground, especially where the safe overflow path drops into the valley.
- A level sill spillway is useful on swales or dam extensions where overflow needs to be spread or moved away from vulnerable ground.
- Level sills give designers more choice over where surplus water leaves the system, especially on steeper or less stable sites.
To support us in creating more videos:
► Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/geofflawtononline
► Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/geofflawtononline
► Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCL_r1ELEvAuN0peKUxI0Umw/?sub_confirmation=1
► And most importantly, enjoy your permaculture journey!
About Geoff:
Geoff is a world-renowned permaculture consultant, designer and teacher who has established demonstration sites in many of the world’s major climates. He’s dedicated his life to sharing permaculture design and inspiring people to care for the earth, care for each other and return the surplus.
About Permaculture:
Permaculture weaves land, resources, people and the environment into a single, supportive system. It mirrors how nature works—no waste, no shortcuts, just smart relationships. The tools are wide-ranging: water harvesting, soil building, energy systems, forestry, natural building, aquaculture, appropriate technology, community development and more. Whether you’re on acreage or in an apartment, these principles scale beautifully.
#permaculture #spillway #dams #swales #waterdesign #earthworks
