A wetlands characterization study was conducted by SWCA Environmental Consultants for the Tooele Valley Project Area that determined approximately 19 of the 243 acres within the project area contained wetlands. The landowner worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers through their wetland permitting process and received approval for a site design to build a crossing over 0.46 acres of the wetlands, leaving the remaining wetlands undisturbed.
The design of the 0.46 wetland crossing includes an innovative Verti-Block retaining wall system that minimizes environmental impact while delivering a durable crossing structure.
A major concern with crossing wetlands is maintaining the natural flow of water, especially considering the site’s proximity to the Great Salt Lake. The Verti-Block system reduces the risk of flooding, erosion, and disruption to aquatic ecosystems by allowing for proper drainage and water flow through its design, preventing water from being dammed or diverted. Additionally, the system can be engineered to include culverts or channels to facilitate the movement of water and ensure the wetland’s hydrological functions are preserved.
This system is made from precast concrete, lowering the environmental footprint in comparison to traditional poured-in-place concrete structure. The usage of recycled materials in the manufacturing process of precast concrete blocks as well as reduced on-site construction time and less heavy equipment usage minimizes disruption to the wetland environment and uses less concrete overall.
Installation of the Verti-Block system is integrated into the landscape in a way that blends naturally with the surrounding environment and requires minimal excavation and ground disturbance. This approach minimizes impacts to and allows for preservation of existing vegetation and wildlife habitats, promoting growth of wetland friendly plants and providing stabilization to the surrounding wetland ecosystem.
Unlike traditional concrete retaining walls, the Verti-Block modular, stackable system mimics natural stone and is engineered to resist weathering, erosion, and water damage, which reduces the need for frequent maintenance and blends well into the wetland environment, contributing to the long-term preservation of the surrounding wetland ecosystem.
Utilizing the Verti-Block system for the wetlands crossing project in the Tooele Valley Project Area is a smart, sustainable choice that prioritizes environmental protection while delivering a robust and efficient infrastructure solution. By preserving wetland hydrology, minimizing site disturbance, reducing the carbon footprint, and promoting native vegetation growth, Verti-Block provided a way to balance human development needs with ecological conservation. Wetlands are vital ecosystems, and the use of environmentally conscious construction methods is essential to ensure these areas continue to provide their critical services for future generations.
Author: Mona Smith
Published: March 25, 2025