Turf reinforcement

Turf reinforcement mats (TRM) may be required in swales which are designed to convey higher velocity events. Most TRM are made of synthetic fibres and intended as a permanent part of the construction (unlike a temporary ECB).

• Mats should be applied with soil fill technique:
  • Grade the swale and smooth the top soil, removing any debris and large rocks,
  • Seed with turf mixture,
  • Dig 150 mm anchor trench at the top of the channel,
  • Secure blanket into the trench with staples every 300 mm. Backfill and compact soil into the trench.
  • Unroll mat in the direction of flow. Staple as recommended by manufacturer.
  • Overlaps should be 150 mm and stapled. Upstream mat should always overlay the downstream mat.
  • Anchor the bottom end of the channel in a similar fashion to the top,
  • Apply 15-20 mm of topsoil over the TRM, without the use of heavy machinery which can tear the mat and/or compact the soil.
  • An Erosion control blanket may be applied to protect the surface through the first one or two years.
  • Irrigate until turf grass is established.

A shallow constructed channel, often grass-lined, which is used as an alternative to curb and channel, or as a pretreatment to other measures. Swales are generally characterized by a broad top width to depth ratio and gentle grades.

A shallow constructed channel, often grass-lined, which is used as an alternative to curb and channel, or as a pretreatment to other measures. Swales are generally characterized by a broad top width to depth ratio and gentle grades.