Engineering Geology for Society and Territory - Volume 3, p. 529-533
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-09054-2_107
Gabion check dams (GCDs) are among the most diffused soil and water conservation practices in Burkina Faso, used to cope with soil loss and reservoir siltation. Specifically, CGDs are flexible, permeable structures built in gullies to create a sedimentation bench that decreases the average upstream slope. The consequent slowing-down of the flowing water limits flood-wave sediment transport capacity reducing soil loss upstream, reduces the amount of trapped sediment in reservoirs and promotes water infiltration into the soil. The present work provides concise guidelines for the design and implementation of GCDs in Burkina Faso. This was achieved gathering the experience developed in the frame of several cooperation and development projects led by the Italian non-governmental organization. The theoretical elements and procedural steps to perform an appropriate design and implementation of GCDs are described and discussed, including hydrological and hydraulic methods to assess stream flow characteristics, spillway functioning, siltation rate, dimensions and stability of the structure.