Innovative Approaches to Addressing Surficial Slope Failures: The Role of Engineered Earth Armoring Solutions in Enhancing Infrastructure Resiliency

In the field of geotechnical engineering, addressing surficial slope failures is crucial for maintaining the integrity and longevity of infrastructure. As engineers, we are tasked daily with finding the most efficient solutions to the challenges of our projects, and it is critical for us to consider the long-term resiliency of the solutions we utilize. Surficial slope failures, often considered maintenance issues or surface erosion, can lead to larger global failures and costly repairs if left unaddressed. Common repair methods, such as pushing the soil back in place or replacing failed soil with large rock riprap, are not always effective. However, Engineered Earth Armoring Solutions (EEAS) have been successfully used to remediate these failed slopes for over 15 years. An EEAS consists of two components: a High Performance Turf Reinforcement Mat (HPTRM) to cover the slope surface, reinforce vegetation, and control erosion; and an Engineered Earth Anchor to permanently secure the HPTRM and improve the surficial stability of the slope. These components work together as a system, providing complementary benefits. In recent years, it has been found that EEAS can stabilize previously failed slopes and can also be applied during initial construction to increase long-term stability, reduce project risk, and enhance the overall resiliency of steepened slopes. Compared to traditional solutions like rock riprap, EEAS can significantly reduce material costs, carbon footprint, and transportation impacts. This paper will focus on geotechnical research compiled over the past years on the use of EEAS for improving the surficial stability of slopes, as well as case studies demonstrating its effectiveness in both reactive remediation efforts and proactive resiliency improvements.