Sacramento Area Sanitary District uses PROPEX erosion-control systems protect exposed infrastructure across 12 creek sites

Overview

The Sacramento Area Sanitary District (SASD) undertook a significant creek stabilization project in Sacramento, CA. The organization identified 12 creek sites that needed refurbishment because flooding had exposed or damaged pipes and other infrastructure. These sites were within densely populated communities, making access and transportation of materials a challenge. The project aimed to stabilize these creeks and protect the infrastructure from future flood events.

The primary concern was the exposure of the pipes and infrastructure, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to significant damage from future flooding. SASD needed a solution that could be easily transported and installed without heavy equipment, given limited access to the sites.

Solution

A combination of PROPEX® erosion control solutions was chosen for ease of transportation and installation, requiring no heavy equipment. The Engineering Services team at Solmax worked directly with the Engineer of Record (EOR) to design unique armoring solutions for each of the 12 sites. The products used in this project included PROPEX Scourlok^®, PROPEX Armormax^®, PROPEX Pyramat^®, PROPEX Pyramattress^®, and PROPEX Landlok^®. These solutions were selected not only for their effectiveness but also for their ability to blend with natural vegetation, providing an aesthetic alternative to hard armoring methods like large stones or concrete.

For the project, PROPEX Armormax was deployed on steep slopes, some steeper than a 1:1 gradient, to reinforce erosion-prone areas and ensure long-term stability. At critical pipe creek crossings, PROPEX Scourlok was strategically installed to prevent scouring and to protect infrastructure from excessive water flow. PROPEX Pyramattress was installed to provide essential protection for exposed pipes along creek beds, acting as a durable yet adaptable revetment system. Together, these engineered solutions strengthened creek resilience, safeguarded essential infrastructure, and promoted long-term flood mitigation.

The installation process was carefully planned and executed to ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding communities. Given the limited access to the sites, most materials were imported by hand. This approach not only facilitated the transportation and installation of the materials but also minimized environmental impact. The PROPEX products were installed with precision, ensuring that each site received the appropriate armoring solution tailored to its specific needs.

Outcome

Since the installation, numerous high-flow storm events have tested the durability of the PROPEX solutions. The armoring systems have withstood these events, demonstrating their resilience and effectiveness in protecting the infrastructure. The project has not only achieved its primary goal of stabilizing the creeks but also enhanced the natural aesthetics of the areas.

The creek stabilization project in Sacramento, CA, showcases the successful application of PROPEX erosion control solutions in addressing infrastructure vulnerabilities in flood-prone areas. The collaboration between SASD and Solmax's Engineering Services resulted in innovative and effective solutions that not only protected the infrastructure but also enhanced the natural aesthetics of the creeks.