Erosion control is a persistent challenge in environmental engineering, particularly in areas where construction and landscaping activities disrupt the natural terrain. One innovative solution that has gained traction in recent years is geocell technology. Geocells are three-dimensional structures, resembling honeycombs, typically constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar geosynthetic materials. Their primary function is to stabilize soil and prevent erosion by confining and reinforcing the soil within their cellular network. This technology has proven especially effective in areas where slopes are prone to erosion due to factors such as water runoff or wind.

Case Study 1: Erosion Control at Shelton Gardens Apartment Complex, Cincinnati, Ohio

Shelton Gardens, an apartment complex situated in Cincinnati, Ohio, encountered a significant erosion challenge during a period of renovations. Part of these renovations included the removal of dense honeysuckle vegetation from a nearby 20-foot high slope, resulting in heightened vulnerability to erosion. This posed a threat to nearby sidewalks and parking lots, necessitating swift and effective erosion control measures.

Under the supervision of engineer Brad Ackel from Carpenter Marty Transportation, the project team opted for the GEOWEB® Slope Protection System with a 4-inch cell depth. This comprehensive system, inclusive of tendon anchoring, a geotextile layer, and topsoil infill, was selected for its capacity to support sustainable vegetation growth while providing superior stability against severe erosion caused by surface runoff and sheet flow. Covering an extensive area of 48,530 square feet, the GEOWEB System's unique 3D cellular structure proved instrumental in mitigating erosion risks in urban settings.

Installation, undertaken by Diamond Excavation & Concrete LLC, commenced on May 18 and concluded on June 16, 2023. The project was executed in phases, with pre-assembled GEOWEB sections connected using patented ATRA® Keys. The system, anchored at the slope’s crest, employed tendon clips to secure and stabilize the structure, thereby preventing shifting and ensuring long-term efficacy. Despite initial unfamiliarity with the GEOWEB System, successful installation underscored its effectiveness in urban erosion control applications.

The installation process involved meticulous site preparation, including clearing and grading, followed by the installation of a geotextile layer to enhance soil stability. The GEOWEB System was then meticulously positioned and secured, with particular attention paid to anchoring it securely at the crest of the slope. Tendons, anchored firmly in place, were integrated into the system to provide additional stability and resistance against erosion forces.

Once the GEOWEB System was in place, it was filled with topsoil using specialized equipment, ensuring uniform distribution and compaction. This topsoil layer provided a fertile environment for the growth of vegetation, further enhancing the system's erosion control capabilities. Hydroseeding was then applied to promote rapid vegetation establishment, followed by the installation of a turf reinforcement mat (TRM) to protect the surface and aid in soil stabilization.

Case Study 2: River Road Slope Stabilization, Lewiston, Maine

River Road, a picturesque route traversing Lewiston, Maine, faced stability and erosion concerns owing to a steep 1:1 slope and heavy traffic flow, necessitating urgent soil stabilization measures. The River Road reconstruction project, comprising shoulder widening, pavement reconstruction, and other infrastructure enhancements, encountered significant challenges in constructing a vegetated slope with a 45-degree angle.

To address these challenges, the project team opted for the GEOWEB Slope Protection System with vegetated infill. Strategic utilization of geogrid lifts during construction significantly enhanced slope stability, facilitating the establishment of an effective erosion control system. Combined with a tendon system, the GEOWEB System effectively stabilized topsoil, promoting sustainable vegetation growth even on slopes exceeding 45 degrees.

Installation involved meticulous planning and execution, with the GEOWEB System filled with rocks at the slope’s toe and topsoil in cells. A turf reinforcement mat was applied to further reinforce the structure and facilitate green cover growth, ensuring long-term stability and erosion resistance.

The construction process was carefully managed to minimize disruption to the surrounding environment and ensure the safety of workers and road users. Measures such as sediment control barriers and erosion control blankets were employed to prevent soil erosion and protect nearby water bodies from sediment runoff.

In conclusion, the GEOWEB Slope Stabilization System emerged as a vital solution in both the Shelton Gardens and River Road projects, providing robust erosion control and slope stabilization capabilities in diverse environmental settings. Its versatility, durability, and effectiveness make it a valuable tool in the arsenal of environmental engineers tasked with mitigating erosion risks and protecting critical infrastructure.