Typical Toe Drain Pipe Construction

Message: The construction of toe drain systems typically involves three components: sand filters, drain rock, and drain pipes.

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Components of a two stage Toe Drain System

Sand Filter

Provides a barrier between the dam embankment and the drain rock. The sand filter prevents the movement of embankment soils into the drain pipe.

Drain Rock

Intercepts water that might be traveling through foundation soils.

Drain Pipe

Collects water from the drain rock and moves it away from the embankment of the dam.

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  Pipes embedded in single stage drain systems have not performed well. Sand is known to clog perforations.

Revision ID: 1590
Revision Date: 06/27/2022