Modeling low-volume road erosion

Elliot, W.J.; Foltz, R.B.; Luce, C.H. 1999. Modeling low-volume road erosion. Presented at the Seventh International Conference on Low-Volume Roads, May 23-26, 1999, Baton Rouge, LA. Transportation Research Record No. 1652, volume 2, 244-249.

Keywords: Road erosion, low volume road

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Abstract: Low-Volume roads are recognized as one of the primary sources of sediment in many watersheds. The authors have carried out research on the details of the complex soil erosion processes occurring on low-volume roads for more than 10 years. An overview of their research summarizes the results of numerous past and ongoing field and computer modeling studies on road erosion processes and the effects of road design on road erosion. The authors have found that insloping and outsloping effects on roads are often overshadowed by the effects of rutting. Most soil erosion on roads is from concentrated flow in ruts or ditches. Adding gravel increases hydraulic conductivity and reduces erosion. Road erosion rates can also be decreased by reducing tire pressure or by removing roads. The authors are developing applications of the Water Erosion Prediction Project model as user-friendly erosion prediction tools for road managers. Further work is required to quantify the effects of current management techniques on water quality and to develop new low-impact road design and management technology.

Moscow FSL publication no. 1999o