Low Volume Roads Chapter 08: Culverts

Course Synopsis:

This course material derives from a Best Management Practices Field Guide as produced by the USDA, Forest Service. The quiz author is J. Cloyce Darnell, P.E.

Did you know? Channel protection, riprap, overflow dips, headwalls, and trash racks can all help mitigate culvert problems, but none are as good as an adequately sized and well placed pipe.

Low Volume Roads (LVRs) are normally considered as roads with relatively low use, an Average Daily Traffic (ADT) of less than 400 vehicles per day, design speeds typically less than 50 mph, and corresponding geometry. Most roads in rural areas are Low Volume Roads.

Understanding the engineering principles and practices uniquely applicable to the design, construction, and maintenance of Low Volume Roads allows the engineer to determine and implement the Best Management Practices described herein. This course provides specific information and engineering criteria regarding culverts and their use, installation, and sizing for Low Volume Roads.

Course Objectives:

This course teaches the following specific knowledge and skills regarding culverts for Low Volume Roads in the following categories:

• Uses and Applications

• Materials and Sizing

• Installation, Bedding, and Backfill

• Recommended Practices

• Practices to Avoid

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