May 8, 2025

Common Challenges & Available Solutions: Reinforced Slopes

Ferguson’s geosynthetic systems for stabilizing slopes, supporting vegetation, and optimizing performance.

“I need to stabilize steep slopes, prevent erosion, and ensure proper vegetation. Budget constraints are a concern, and I need durable, low-maintenance solutions.” — Contractor

Reinforced slopes are essential for managing grade changes, preventing erosion, and supporting infrastructure. However, they present unique challenges that require specialized solutions. Below, we address common issues and present Ferguson’s tailored solutions.

Challenge 1: I need a vegetated “green” reinforced slope solution.

Vegetated solutions are preferred for their environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal. They help in reducing erosion, improving water quality, and supporting wildlife habitats.

Available Solutions:

  • ArmorMax®: Combines high-performance turf reinforcement mats (HPTRMs) with earth anchors to provide immediate erosion protection and promote vegetation growth.
  • Pyrawall®: An engineered wrap-face vegetated solution for constructing reinforced-soil walls and steepened slopes.
  • Scourlok®: A robust system designed to resist extreme hydraulic stresses while promoting vegetation, ideal for slopes requiring both strength and ecological integration.
  • MacMat®: A three-dimensional geomat providing long-term erosion control, suitable for both dry and wet environments.

Challenge 2: I need to hard armor my slope.

Areas with high flow velocities or severe erosion require durable solutions to protect infrastructure and prevent slope failure.

Available Solutions:

  • Concrete Canvas®: A flexible, concrete-filled geotextile that hardens upon hydration, forming a durable, waterproof layer for erosion control.
  • Fabric-Formed Concrete: Utilizes geotextile forms filled with concrete to create a monolithic structure, ideal for stabilizing uneven subgrades and providing scour protection.
  • HydroTurf®: An engineered revetment system offering hard armor protection with a turf-like appearance, suitable for high-velocity and shear stress conditions.
  • Gabions: Wire mesh baskets filled with rock, providing flexible and permeable solutions for slope stabilization.

Challenge 3: I need a low-cost alternative to concrete.

Budget constraints necessitate cost-effective yet reliable solutions for slope stabilization without compromising performance.

Available Solutions:

  • ShearForce™: A hybrid-turf instant armor mat that provides immediate erosion protection with a natural grass-like appearance, reducing the need for traditional hard armor.
  • GreenArmor® System: Combines turf reinforcement mats with engineered vegetation for high-performance erosion control, serving as a green alternative to hard armor.
  • Pyramat® TRMs: Engineered for superior erosion control on steep slopes and vegetated waterways, facilitating rapid vegetation establishment.
  • MacMat®: Provides long-term erosion control with its three-dimensional matrix, suitable for various slope conditions.

Challenge 4: I need help vegetating my side slopes.

Establishing vegetation on slopes is crucial for long-term erosion control and ecological restoration. However, poor soil conditions can hinder plant growth.

Available Solutions:

  • ProGanics® DUAL™: A biotic soil media that improves soil health and provides effective erosion control in a single application, ideal for depleted soils.
  • Soil Conditioners: Enhance soil structure and fertility, promoting healthy vegetation establishment.
  • Nutrients: Essential for plant growth, these supplements ensure successful vegetation on challenging sites.
  • Flexterra®: A high-performance flexible growth medium that requires no soil preparation, allowing for increased germination rates and rapid establishment.
  • Erosion Control Blankets: Provide immediate erosion protection and support seed germination, suitable for various slope conditions.

Can these solutions also reduce long-term maintenance and environmental impact?

Yes. By promoting vegetation and using durable materials, these solutions minimize the need for frequent repairs and reduce sediment runoff, leading to improved water quality and ecosystem health.

Where can I get assistance with selecting the right reinforced slope solution?

Ferguson’s geosynthetics experts are ready to help you choose the most suitable products for your specific project needs.
Contact your local Ferguson Waterworks expert to discuss your project requirements.

 

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