Abstract |
This is a nonpoint source pollution project that identifies, documents, and encourages the use of environmentally sensitive maintenance of dirt and gravel roads. Specifically, this project involved the development of a reference manual and related technical information sheets on 'Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance of Dirt and Gravel Roads' for national use. The manual will provide insight into using natural systems and innovative technologies to reduce erosion, sediment and dust pollution while more effectively and efficiently maintaining dirt and gravel roads. The manual will address the environment of forests, mountainous terrain, and rolling hills. Various states already employ some of the more common practices, particularly forestry departments. These states and their local governments are prime targets for deploying the additional practices to be addressed in the manual. The manual will give the users a 'tool box' full of environmentally sensitive maintenance tools or practices, recognizing that not one tool can fit every situation or site or solve all their problems in maintaining their dirt and gravel roads and protecting the environment. |