Water Portal / Rainwater Harvesting / Groundwater recharge / Gabions
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Revision as of 19:57, 1 May 2012 by Winona (talk | contribs) (Created page with "Gabion structure in a stream bed. Photo: SAI. A gabion is semi permeable barrier, made of boulders in a mesh of steel wires and an...")
A gabion is semi permeable barrier, made of boulders in a mesh of steel wires and anchored to the stream bank, to slow but not stop, the flow of storm water in a small watercourse so to favour water infiltration to groundwater and help prevent soil erosion.
The height of such structures is around 0.5 m and 1m wide, and is normally used in the streams with width of less than 10 m.
Suitable conditions
- Gabions should be located within a straight reach of the watercourse, not on a curve nor immediately after a curve.
- A poorly constructed gabion can do more harm than good by diverting water towards the bank. Consult a qualified professional.
Construction, operations and maintenance
Maintenance
Inspect gabions following major runoff events. Adjust apron size, gabion width, and gabion height as needed based on its performance.
