Low-volume roads have long been known to contribute to substantial erosion and sediment production, as well as create other problems such as channel modifications, slope instability, or land use changes. Roads are a basic part of rural infrastructure and are needed for rural development, access to areas, resource extraction, movement of goods and services, etc. Well built roads that are environmentally sensitive can be accomplished, but they require good design, attention to detail, a holistic perspective, trained and experienced people, and the application of roads best management practices. This paper discusses many of those best practices. Good road engineering that is relatively environmentally friendly involves a blend of three basic components: 1. application of basic engineering and design concepts, including good planning and location, drainage analysis, stable slopes, and proper selection of roadway materials; 2. environmental awareness and application of practical environmental mitigation measures, such as environmental analysis, erosion and sediment control, fish passage and wildlife crossings, and invasive species control; and 3. use of appropriate, innovative technologies to facilitate work and make it more cost-effective, such as GIS mapping, use of geosynthetics, trenchless technologies, mechanically stabilized earth structures, and simple in-situ site characterization tools. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E217099.
Samenvatting