Geology Reference
In-Depth Information
◗
Figure 11.27
Stabilizing a Hillside by Benching
Another common
method used to
stabilize a hillside
and reduce its slope
is benching. This
process involves
making several cuts
along a hillside to
reduce the overall
slope. Furthermore,
individual slope
failures are now
limited in size, and
the material collects
on the benches.
a
Image not available due to copyright restrictions
Before
Former slope
After
◗
Figure 11.28
Retaining Walls Help Reduce Landslides
Vegetation
planted on slope
Retaining wall
Road gutter
Road
Soil
Retaining walls anchored into bedrock, backfi lled with gravel, and
provided with drainpipes can support a slope's base and reduce
landslides.
a
Gravel fill
Drainpipe
A steel retaining wall built to stabilize the slope and keep falling
and sliding rocks off the highway.
b
help secure the slopes at the Glen Canyon Dam on the
Colorado River.
Recognition, prevention, and control of landslide-prone
areas are expensive, but not nearly as expensive as the dam-
age can be when such warning signs are ignored or not
recognized. Unfortunately, there are numerous examples of
landfi ll and dam collapses that serve as tragic reminders of
the price paid in loss of lives and property damage when the
warning signs of impending disaster are ignored.
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