Debris Flow Mitigation With Flexible Barrier Systems

Debris flow mitigation using flexible nets and barriers that have been installed in Western Canada over the past 20 years. Owners of highways, hydro dams, pipelines, railways and other infrastructure projects have increasingly relied upon and installed flexible mitigation systems to protect their assets. The systems require a very small footprint, both physically and environmentally, while providing a certified, adaptable, and engineered solution that can outperform more rigid engineered structures. There is an increased demand for these adaptable off the shelf systems to be installed after wildfires, due to increased frequency and intensity of rainstorms causing both debris flow and flood events.
Through the talk you will learn about how these mitigation systems were developed, how the systems are tested and certified, as well as the current state-of-the-art in this field of expertise. Case studies of different installations of early debris flow barriers protecting railways, towns, and highways through to more recent examples will also be presented. The case studies will cover recent post wildfire installations in the USA and Canada where the design and installation of the flexible barriers were conducted in environmentally sensitive areas. Slides will be shown of systems outlining some of the key sizing and design information such as the various heights, lengths, impact ratings and ground conditions. Designers, contractors and engineers will find tips and best practices for installing systems in different conditions such as soil, rock and talus.