Topic outline

  • Design of Vegetative Rock Retaining Walls

    Credits: 1 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    A vegetated rock wall is in the category of mixed-construction bioengineering. Both structural, mechanical, and vegetative elements work together to prevent surface erosion and shallow mass movement by stabilizing and protecting the toe of steep slopes. These types of treatments can provide edge habitat and reduce the need to grade the banks.

    These walls differ from conventional retaining structures because they are placed against relatively undisturbed earth and are not designed to resist large earth pressures.They are most applicable in high energy streams with narrow riparian corridors..

    Topics:

    • Introduction to Vegetative Rock Wall design
    • Construction expertise levels required
    • Applications and effectiveness
    • Analyzing existing slope conditions
    • Design procedure for establishing width and height
    • Construction guidelines

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion


    Intended Audience: This course is intended for Geotechnical, Civil, Environmental, Water Resources, and other engineers whose job description requires a general knowledge of vegetative rock wall construction and design.

    Publication Source: USDA (Natural Resources Conservation Service)

    Donald Parnell, PE
    • Topic 1