Here Is Information On Slope Stabilization

By Helen Anderson


Landscape is usually impacted adversely by elements of weather like wind, rain, snow, and sunshine. Unstable slopping is among these effects. Slope instability is caused when a gulley is formed after weak top soil drifts downwards. Human activities, elements of weather and natural processes can instigate this process. Effective measures should be put in place in order to curb unstable slopping which is a major safety issue. This is what Slope stabilization is all about.

Roads become unusable or they have many accidents happening on them if slope instability happens on them. Therefore, stabilization of the slope is the best mechanism to handle the issue. Several methods are available for use to stop soil from being eroded down the slope immediately or over time.

Several methods have been invented for use in stabilizing slopes. They may be used alone or in combination to achieve the desired results. Some of these methods include terracing, diversions, grassed waterways, conservation ponds, retaining walls, drop structures, sobo dams, trail improvement, and gully control among many others. Applying several methods together achieves better results better and faster.

Among the approaches in common use in curbing erosion and stabilizing slopes is terracing. Here, a series of step-like structures are made into the landscape. This is purposed to regulate how surface runoff happens. The surface runoff is guided by these steps across the slope. They also convey the runoff at the right outlet at a non-erosive speed. Erosion is generally reduced when soil gets trapped on the terrace.

Another method that is used commonly is the creation of diversions in the slope. Diversions are usually constructed across slopes so that they can intercept the runoff and dispose it at a specified location. The purposes of diversions include breaking up long slopes, directing water away from active sites of erosion, directing water around agricultural locations, and/or channeling runoffs to suitable outlets.

Open ditches can be used to easily and safely drain off springs. This method starts by having the main ditch dug. The gradient of the slope should be in the same direction as that of the ditch dug. Smaller ditches should then be dug in a fishbone pattern from the main ditch. Tertiary and secondary ditches should be included in the smaller ditches.

Water that flows through the ditches should be collected close to its origin as much as possible. One can the direct it to a side drain, culvert, or water course close by. At the ditch bottom, one needs to place stones or gravel to prevent bed erosion. Pipe drains are more effectual hence they can also be used. However, they can be costly to acquire. Over time, there is likelihood that stones can silt up. Therefore, having an effective drainage system is important.

Slopes can be best stabilized by planting grass along waterways. Grass may grow naturally or it may need to be grown. This not only applies to grass but also to other appropriate vegetation. Before vegetation is planted, the surface should be prepared well. Vegetation serves to make soil harder and firmer so that it cannot be carried away easily by water.




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