This research would result in guidelines for the design of check dams for stormwater treatment in the roadside clear zone to maximize the retention and filtration of roadway runoff and protect the safety of the traveling public. This is a continuation of the study completed in 2011 for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation titled “Crash Testing of Various Erosion Control Features” (see Literature Search Summary Section for full reference). The major tasks would include:
1. Literature search on previous testing and research completed.
2. Develop 3-5 draft check dam design details with varying configurations (e.g., slope, height, width) and materials for evaluation. The evaluation shall include cost-effective materials which may be configured to safely giveaway and be replaced and/or be traversable.
3. Develop computer simulation requirements and evaluation criteria.
4. Conduct computer simulation modeling on vehicular impacts to the check dam prototypes developed in task 2 to test the safety and recoverability of vehicles in clear zone conditions. Various conditions such as varying approach slopes (including varying transverse side slopes of the ditch and longitudinal ditch grades), ground cover conditions (e.g., standing water or ice, vegetation, etc.), and check dam configurations (e.g., consecutive check dams).
5. Develop final design guidelines for use of check dams in the clear zone for various roadway speeds, clear zone slopes, and check dam materials.