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Examples of
Erosion Damage
EROSION DUE TO PIPE DISCHARGE
The velocity of water coming out of the end of a pipe can move soil particles and even sand and stones. The placement of geotextile, rocks, or riprap at the pipe end to slow the water down by reducing the energy of the stream coming from the pipe can be used to reduce damage. This is a maintenance item that should be monitored by the owner and repaired as needed.
SEDIMENT DEPOSITS FROM DRAINAGE FLOW
Drainage flowing across sidewalks is an ongoing maintenance problem due to the sediment deposits and the freeze-thaw process. In addition, the sediment build-up is a hazard to pedestrians and cyclists. Over time, this type of drainage problem will cause damage to the sidewalk.
CHANGES IN TOPOGRAPHY CAUSED BY EROSION
Some soil types are susceptible to erosion or moisture retention, resulting in topographic changes. Water transports sediment from one area to another and changes the ground's surface. Over time, erosion typically worsens and can result in significant drainage impacts to adjacent structures and elements.
WASHOUT OF SOIL ON TOP OF RETAINING WALL
Water seepage through the backfill of a retaining wall can cause the washout of soil and, as a result, undermine the structural stability of the wall. It is essential to properly control drainage around a retaining wall.
EROSION OF GROUND SLOOPE
Uncontrolled concentrated flows from upstream sources can cause sheet erosion and rill erosion on a slope. In residential neighborhoods, water from roof gutter downspouts is a common source of uncontrolled concentrated flows. Erosion undermines vegetation and causes sediment transport into inlets and other site areas.
BUILD-UP OF SEDIMENT
Water accumulates and drops sediment at drainage low points.
SEDIMENT
The build-up of sediment indicates a drainage low point, where water seeps into the ground.
RILL EROSION
Typical rill erosion on previously seeded ground surface.
EROSION OF SANDSTONE
Sandstone is a soil type that is susceptible to erosion. Often, eroded surfaces, such as sandstone, are difficult to repair due to the type of soil, topography, and climate.
RILL EROSION ON STEEP SLOPES
Steep slopes are especially susceptible to erosion from concentrated flows. Drainage from roof sources should be properly diverted from sloped areas.
SURFACE VEGETATION PROBLEMS
Erosion of the ground surface can occur when the surface has not been adequately restored with topsoil and seeded after grading operations.
BUILD-UP OF SEDIMENT
The buildup of sediment at the base of a slope is a clue that erosion is occurring upstream.
SLOPE DAMAGE
On sloped ground, erosion can progress from sheet erosion to rill erosion. It is difficult to establish vegetation in such conditions.
STEEP SLOPES
Erosion will get worse over time if upstream water is not controlled. Drainage from upstream roofs can damage steep slopes.
RILL EROSION
Some soil types are more susceptible to erosion than others.
DISSIPATION OF FINES
Water flow removes fine soil particles, and pebbles and stones often remain on the surface.
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