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There are two types of spillways. Controlled and uncontrolled.
A controlled spillway has a mechanical method to regulate the water flow over or through a dam. This can be a door or series of door, valves, or other methods of diverting or preventing the overflow of water.
Uncontrolled spillways are only regulated by the spillway's physical dimensions. For example; if the spillway is 18 feet high, it will only control 18 feet of water. Any excess will go over the dam.