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This chapter describes the earth erosion caused by the water flow and seepage that occurs through earth dams, earth embankments and some other structures constructed with earth, such as canal systems, dikes, reservoirs and levees. The erosion in levees on river banks and in levees constructed to protect urban areas exposed to flooding is also discussed. It first describes the mechanism of the soil erosion and the importance of such phenomenon, particularly the damages and consequences that such erosion might produce when it becomes out of control. For instance, one of the main causes of earth dam failures all over the world is the so called piping event, which occurs due to the constant migration of soil particles towards free exits or into coarse openings; this event might occur through the earth embankment or its foundation soil. Another cause of constant earth structure failures is due to uncontrolled saturation and seepage forces. In this context, phenomena known as rapid filling and rapid drawdown, which occur in earth structures subjected to sudden changes of water level (increments or decrements) that modify flow conditions inside a soil mass are assessed. Examples of both failures are given in this chapter. Each one of the main factors that affect the occurrence of the earth erosion phenomenon is described with detail. Among these factors are: a) the erodibility of the soil; b) the water velocity inside the soil mass; c) geometry of the earth structure. Other important factors discussed here are the homogeneity or anisotropy of the earth structure and its foundation soil, the soil graduation and degree of compaction of the materials used during the construction process; the hydraulic conductivity of such materials, the upstream water energy head, as well as the hydraulic gradient. The importance and the way that each of these factors affect the earth erosion are presented. The calculation of the seepage forces and their effects in slope stability are also described. The main graphical and numerical methods used for the analysis of the erosion problem considering steady-state and transient flow conditions are discussed. The advantages and shortcomings of each one are emphasized. Description of the existing procedures for preventing damages due to soil erosion is given in this chapter. Some remediation methods for solving hydraulic problems related to piping or internal erosion, such as impermeable flexible walls, impermeable blankets, grouting

Internal Erosion Due to Water Flow Through Earth Dams and Earth Structures