US Department of Agriculture, USDA Forest Service, Technology and Development Program Banner with Logos.
Images from various aspects of the T&D Program.
HomeAbout T&DT&D PubsT&D NewsProgram AreasHelpContact Us
  T&D > T&D Pubs > Trail Construction and Maintenance Notebook T&D Publications Header

Trail Construction and Maintenance Notebook

Figure 20

Drawing of how a waterbar is placed on a trail.

Drawing of the top view of how a waterbar should be placed in a trail. There is an arrow showing the direction of water flow with the label 'Downslope—direction of waterflow'. The waterbar is labeled 'Waterbar construction at 45 angle. Reset loose or missing rocks and logs.', and an arrow is used to show its location. The area above the waterbar is marked where a channel should be dug in order to redirect waterflow. This area is labeled with the text 'Thoroughly dig material out of this area—at least two shovel blades wide. Use for backing below waterbar.' An arrow is used to show the location of the dirt that was used for backing. Right next to the outlet dug for waterflow the text 'Reinforce outlet area if eroded.' is also included. The trail is labeled with the text 'Trail Tread'.