Benching is required on a slope steeper than 2:1 if its height is greater than?

Benching is a critical technique used in the construction and maintenance of steep slopes to enhance stability and minimize erosion. It involves creating a series of flat areas or steps on the slope. In Maryland, regulations specify that when a slope exceeds a steep ratio — in this case, steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical) — the need for benching becomes necessary beyond a certain height.

When working with slopes steeper than 2:1, the regulation states that benching is mandated when the height of these slopes reaches more than 20 feet. This requirement is designed to ensure that such steep slopes have adequately designed interventions to prevent erosion and ensure slope stability, particularly in heavy rainfall or adverse weather conditions.

By implementing benching on slopes exceeding this height, the risk of destabilization decreases, as benches help to slow down water runoff and promote better absorption of rainfall, thereby further reducing erosion. Understanding this regulatory requirement is crucial for proper site design and erosion control practices in construction and land development within Maryland.