Building resilience into the natural environment

PLAN OF WORKS AND DETAIL DESIGNS. These documents include detail design of the earthworks, revegetation and maintenance requirements.  A critical element of the engineered solution is the design and specification for revegetation (spacing, species, angle of planting). While often seen as less important, it must be an integral part of the solution for sustainable landscape restoration.

SITE SET OUT AND CONSTRUCTION OVERSITE. It is vital that the site set-out is conducted together with earthworks contractors to ensure clarity on design and project requirements.  Oversight of project construction by our engineers ensures design specifications are achieved in the field for long-term project success and avoids costly errors requiring rework. 

VEGETTAION AND MAINTENANCE OVERSIGHT. Revegetation placement and establishment is critical. Supervision during installation is required to ensure vegetation is correctly placed and is maintainable for hydraulic effectiveness. This requires set out of the revegetation design and a site conformance inspection after planting.

Engineered log jams are an innovative solution to combat erosion along creek and riverbanks. These structures consist of strategically placed logs that serve multiple purposes. They are effective at stabilizing eroding shorelines, reducing the scouring of banks, and preventing sediment transport downstream. Engineered log jams also provide essential habitat enhancements in aquatic ecosystems. By creating sheltered areas and increasing habitat complexity, they foster the growth of vegetation and provide refuge for fish and other wildlife.

Pile fields are a robust method for preventing erosion and protecting infrastructure along creek and riverbanks. These wooden or steel structures are driven into the banks, reinforcing them and reducing soil loss. Pile fields can be tailored to the specific needs of a location and are versatile in their application. By preventing further bank erosion and providing stability, they play a crucial role in safeguarding the infrastructure and the environment.

Leaky weirs are hydraulic structures designed to manage water flow in a controlled manner by allowing controlled seepage through the structure. These weirs are effective at mitigating erosion by dissipating the energy of flowing water. They also provide benefits such as facilitating fish passage, promoting oxygenation of the water, and improving water quality. By allowing a controlled amount of water to seep through, leaky weirs are versatile tools in water management and environmental conservation, contributing to the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.

Rock chutes are engineered structures placed in watercourses to address erosion and sediment transport issues. They are particularly effective in stabilizing gully head walls, reducing soil loss, and protecting sensitive areas from further degradation. Rock chutes vary in design but generally consist of rocks or other materials that break up the flow of water, reducing its erosive force. By controlling sediment transport and mitigating erosion, these structures contribute to the preservation and protection of waterways, helping to maintain ecological balance in sensitive environments.

Vetiver grass is a natural solution for reducing erosion in gully head walls. Its extensive root systems help bind soil, stabilize banks, and prevent further gully development. Vetiver chutes involve planting this grass in gully head walls, offering an eco-friendly and sustainable way to address erosion issues and promote environmental conservation.

Contour design is a land management strategy that focuses on sustainable land practices and drainage control. By planning land use to follow the contours of the landscape, it reduces erosion on hillslopes and in gullies. This approach not only minimizes soil loss but also contributes to overall environmental sustainability by preventing degradation and promoting responsible land practices.

These projects aim to manage and eradicate invasive plant species along riparian areas, which are the zones along the banks of water bodies. Invasive species can disrupt native ecosystems, affect water quality, and reduce habitat for wildlife. Riparian weed control initiatives help maintain healthy riparian zones, which are vital for water quality, biodiversity, and the overall health of aquatic environments. These projects are a key component of environmental conservation efforts.

Refuge gullies are designed to capture and store water during heavy rainfall events, reducing downstream flooding. These structures help control water flow and protect vulnerable areas. They are especially useful in regions prone to extreme weather events, as they can mitigate the impact of flooding and prevent damage to infrastructure and ecosystems.