Guideline Check Dams Complete Set

Title
Guidelines For Design and

Construction Of Check Dams For
Prevention and Control Of Peatland
Fire
Type of
Reference
Engineering Design Guides / Manual
Category
Structure
Author
Ng Kok Seng
Reference No.
EGM-STR-001
Date of
Publication
August 2011
Serial No.
SS-TP-01-01-2011
Keywords
Check Dams, Peatland
Source
Design and Dam Division, DID

Malaysia
Jabatan Pengaiiran dan Salliran Malayysia
Kementerian Sumber Asli Dan Alam Sekitar
Malaysia
GUIDELINES FOR DESIGN AND
CONSTRUCTION OF CHECK DAMS
FOR PREVENTION AND CONTROL
OF PEATLAND FIRE
Serial No: SSSS-TP

TP--0101-0101-2011
August 2011
FOREWORD
In the past decade, incident of peatland fires have been occurring frequently in Malaysia,
particularly during the prolonged dry weather which normally occurs between the month of
February to May and July to October each year. The associated haze and pollution have
resulted in severe consequences to the socio-economic, ecology, and environment especially
in term of their potential impact on public health of local residential population. Under the
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) Peat Fire Prevention and Control
Program, the provision of check dam structures has been identified as one of the key
components to combat the frequent occurrence of peatland wildfires and the associated
hazardous hazy conditions. Since 2008, Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran Malaysia (JPS) has
been entrusted with the task of implementation of check dam structures in peat areas prone
to fires in various States such as Selangor, Johor, Pahang, Kelantan, Sarawak and Sabah.
This task includes the various aspects of planning, design, construction and operation and
maintenance of check dam structures.
The use of check dams has been proven to be an effective method in rising and maintaining
the water and moisture levels in the peatland, thus minimizing the risk of wildfires especially
during the prolonged drought periods. Various techniques and types of materials have been
used by JPS in the construction of these check dam structures which include sand/earth
filled bags, timber logs, stones/rocks, gabions and reinforced concrete either precast or castin-situ. In view of these, it is hope that this Guideline would serve as a useful source of
information and knowledge as well as provides the best engineering practices for users
involved in the selection, planning, design and construction of check dam structures in
peatlands.
.
JABATAN PENGAIRAN DAN SALIRAN MALAYSIA

(DEPARTMENT OF IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE MALAYSIA)
JALAN SULTAN SALAHUDDIN,
50626 KUALA LUMPUR
Rev 0 (December 2010) - Guidelines for Design and Construction of Check Dams For
Prevention and Control of Peatland Fire
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This guideline is one of the many initiatives undertaken by JPS to improve its delivery
system and to achieve the mission of the Department in providing efficient and effective
services. It is made possible through the efforts by many JPS staff, in particular, Mr. Ng
Kok Seng (Senior Principal Assistant Director) who had prepared the Guideline, and the
following members of the Technical Committee in Bahagian Rekabentuk dan Empangan
(BRE) who had reviewed and provided valuable input:
Ir. Lee Loke Chong, Director
Pn Rozaini Bt. Abdullah, Deputy Director
Mr. Ng Kim Hoy, Deputy Director
Pn. Rosilawani Bt. Sulong , Assistant Director
In addition, the Department is also grateful to JPS staff in the States of Selangor, Johor,
Pahang, Kelantan, Sarawak, and Sabah for their invaluable information, support and
contribution of ideas. Also, special thanks to Y.Bhg. Dato Ir. K. J. Abraham, Deputy
Director-General II (Specialist Sector), JPS Malaysia for his continuous support and
numerous useful suggestions in ensuring the successful completion of this Guideline.
Registration of Amendments
Amend No
Page No
Date of
Amendment
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
1.0
2.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose And Scope
1.2 Limitation of Guidelines
DESIGN CONSIDERATION FOR CHECK DAM STRUCTURE

2.1 Purpose of Check Dam
2.2 Design Considerations
2.2.1 Location of Site
2.2.2 Control Water level
2.2.3 Durability of Check Dam
2.2.4 General Layout
2.2.5 Hydrology and Hydraulic of Peatland
2.2.6 Seepage Control
2.2.7 Cost
3.0
TYPICAL CHECK DAMS

3.1 Classification of Check Dam Structures
(a) Short-term (temporary)
12
(b) Medium-term (Semi-permanent)
12
(c) Long-term (Permanent)
13
3.2 Type of Check Dam Structure
4.0
10
13
3.2.1 Sand / Local Earth Filled Bags Check Dam
13
3.2.2 Timber Check Dam
17
3.2.3 Stones / Rocks Check Dam
20
3.2.4 Gabions Check Dam
21
3.2.5 Precast Concrete Stacked Blocks Check Dam
24
3.2.6 Precast Concrete Post-panel System Check Dam
25
3.2.7 Cast-in-situ Concrete check Dam
28
GENERAL MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES
30
iii
List of Figures
List of Tables
Appendix A
References
iv
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 2.1
Location of Series of check Dam Structures Along Waterway in

Peatland
Figure 2.2
Cost comparison of Typical Check Dam Structures
Figure 3.1
Check Dam Structure Type Earth/Sand Filled Bags for Medium

Term Application
16
Figure 3.2
Example of a Typical Timber logs Check Dam
17
Figure 3.3
Example of a Check Dam Structure Using Wood Board and Posts
19
Figure 3.4
Example of a Timber Check Dam with Rip-rap Protection Works

(Plan View)
19
Figure 3.5
Minimum Design Requirements for Stacked Stones Check Dam.
21
Figure 3.6
Check Dam Structure Type Gabions with Gated Flow Control

for Medium-Term Application
23
Figure 3.7
Precast Concrete Stacked Blocks Check Dam Structure
25
Figure 3.8
Check Dam Structure Type RC Post-Panel (with Flow Control)

for Long-term Application
27
Figure 3.9
Example of a Check Dam Structure Type Cast-in-situ

Reinforced Concrete for Long-term Application
29
Figure A2.1
Example of a Sand-Fill Bag Check Dam
33
Figure A2.2
Typical Sand-Fill Bag Check Dam Dam
33
Figure A2.3
Example of Timber board Check Dam
33
Figure A2.4
Example of Loose Stones Check Dam
34
Figure A2.5
Example of Loose Stones Check Dam
34
Figure A2.6
Example Gabion Type Check Dam
34
Figure A2.7
Typical Gabion Type check Dam
35
LIST OF TABLES
Page
Table 3.1
Principal Characteristic of Check Dams
11
Table 3.2
Specifications of Geosynthetics Bag for Earth-filled Check Dam

(Class: Medium Term Application)
15
vi
INTRODUCTION
1.1
PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The purpose of this guide is to recommend a general standard of good practices in
planning, design and construction of check dam structures in existing waterway in
peaty areas to prevent and control peatland fires. It is developed to provide an
overview of some of the requirements, criteria and common practices in the design
and construction of these check dam structures. For the purpose of this guide,
waterways in peatland are regarded as having minimal discharge due to the
relatively large reservoir storage of the peatland which buffer the effects of rainfalls.
Generally, the main goal of this Guideline is to:a) Provide a general understanding and appreciation of the usage of check dams
gearing towards a sound, safe and effective design and construction
b) Provide a consistent guidance for practitioners involved in the provision of
check dam structures.
c)
Provide some guides on the selection of the most suitable types of check dam
structures
The practices and standards set out here are not meant to be comprehensive but to
serve as a general guide due to the many uncertainties and wide variety of site
conditions as well as the many possible types of check dam structures that can be
used. It is aimed at practicing civil engineers and technical personnel in the
Department involved in providing check dams and who are also conversant with the
relevant engineering principles and practices in the field of hydraulic and
geotechnical engineering.
Section 2.0 outlined some the important considerations required in the planning and
design of check dam structures. However, detail design including the aspects of
hydrology, geotechnical, stability and seepage analysis requirements are not
discussed here as readers may refer to appropriate references.
Section 3.0 described and illustrated some of the common types of check dam
structures that can be used in the Department. It provided an insight into some of
Rev 0 (August 2011) - Guidelines for Design and Construction of Check Dams For
Pg 1
the
important
design
and
construction
requirements
including
materials
specifications, hydraulic and geotechnical considerations.

Section 4.0 provided some general guides on the operation and maintenance of
check dam structures. Personnel involved in the operation of check dams should
also refer to the operation procedure issued by the Ministry entitled Prosedur Tetap
Operasi Untuk Melaksanakan Program Pencegahan Kebakaran di Tanah Gambut

issued in May 2010.
1.2
Limitation of Guidelines
As mentioned above, this Guideline is meant to be used for check dam structures
located in peat areas where discharges during rainfalls in the waterways are at
minimal due to the attenuation effects of the large peatland storage. It is developed
based mainly on the information gathered from literature researches and the
Departments knowledge and experiences in the implementation of check dam
structures.
In view of the large variety of site and ground conditions, users must realize that
there is no possible way to cover all the various intricate aspects of check dams
structures design and construction.
As such, sound engineering judgment from
experienced practicing personnel who are familiar with peat soil and knowledgeable
about the check dam structures design and construction are important in applying
the guidelines presented. Knowledge of local experiences can also be invaluable in
ensuring the success of the design of check dam structures.
Pg 2
2. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR

CHECK DAM STRUCTURE
2.1
PURPOSE OF CHECK DAM

A check dam, sometimes known as ditch check, is a barrier constructed across
waterways such as open channel, swales, and ditch or drains. Check dam can either
be a temporary or permanent structure which is built to retain and maintain the
desired ground water level within the peatland. In this way, it reduces the possibility
of ignition of fire in the drying peat as well as prevents any fire from spreading
during any hot and dry spell.
In the context of fire prevention and control, check dams are specifically installed for
the following purposes:a) To maintain minimum water level in the peatland areas so as to avoid any fire
ignition on land surfaces.
b) To maintain high soil moisture levels so as to minimize fire in the peatland areas
from occurring and spreading especially during prolonged dry and hot season
c)
To prevent over-drainage of the peat land which will lead to drying out of the
organic materials causing carbon release as well as land subsidence.
d) To conserve as much water as possible during and after the dry season that
would help to recharge ground water.
2.2
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
They are many different types of check dam structures utilizing various different
materials. Some of these check dams are
Local or imported sand/earth filled bags check dam - see Figure A 2.1 and A2.2
Timber logs check dam see Figure A2.3 and A2.4
Loose stones/rocks check dam - see Figure A2.5
Stacked stones/rocks in encasement (gabions) check dam - see Figure A2.6

and Figure A2.7
Concrete (either precast or cast-in-situ) check dams-see Figure 3.7, 3.8 and
3.9
Further details of these check dams can be found in Section 3 of this Guidelines.
Pg 3
In general, there are several important factors that need to be considered in the
design and construction of check dam structures. These factors are:
Location of Site
Control Water Level
Durability of Check Dam
General Layout
Hydrology and Hydraulic of Peatland
Seepage control
Cost Effectiveness
Further details on these factors are discussed below.

2.2.1
Location of Site
The selection of the location of check dam is crucial as its will determine its
effectiveness in controlling the ground water table. Some of the considerations when
selecting the location are: a) The general topography of land so that the limited ground water can be stored
and the water level maintained over a longer duration. If possible, the site
selected should be able to provide a long length and large volume of stored
water
b) Existing drainage system so that water can be blocked effectively, and if
necessary a series of check dams is incorporated into the system
c)
Percentage of potential fire hazard peat lands on either side of the length of
stored water should be high
d) Accessibility of site with regards to access to vehicles/machinery for

construction as well as operation and maintenance of structures
e) The risk of submergence to any cropped lands, residential areas and other
infrastructures during flash floods.
2.2.2 Control Water Level
The water level in the drain ponded by the check dam should be kept as high as
possible to prevent the peat from drying out and turn into a highly combustible
material. Some general requirements in the desired water level to be maintained by
the check dam are as follows:Rev 0 (August 2011) - Guidelines for Design and Construction of Check Dams For
Pg 4
a)
The ground water table in the peatland adjacent to the check dam structure
should not be more than 400 mm below the average peat ground level
b)
The risk of submergence of any cropped lands or local residential population

during flash floods should be minimized
c)
Check dams should never be placed in active and high flows waterways unless
they are designed to convey the required flows.
d)
Freeboard for channel shall be site specific and take into consideration the
effects of any submergence to facilities such as roads, residential areas and
crops lands
2.2.3
Durability of Check Dam

Check dams can be built using various type of materials such as earth, sand (loose
or in bags), timber (sawn or log), stones/rocks (loose or stacked), or concrete (castin-situ or precast form). In selection of the most appropriate materials to be used as
the main components of the check dam structure, designer should take into
consideration the following factors:
Size and dimensions of check dam
Site conditions (e.g. waterlogged, depth of peats)
Accessibility of site
Availability of local materials
Designed service life of the structure (short-term, medium term or long-term)
Cost of construction
2.2.4 General Layout

Some of the general layout requirements of check dam structures are:a)
The centre of the dam should be at least 150 mm lower than either edge, so as
to form an outfall weir for any active flows. However, the actual freeboard to be
incorporated should be based on the risk and hazard of flooding to the
surrounding areas.
b)
Stabilization works with channel lining or protection works (such as riprap or

gabion mattresses) should be provided immediately downstream of the check
dam to prevent any possible toe erosion and undercutting.
Pg 5
c)
The embankment/barrier of check dam should be extended adequately into the

existing bank to prevent any excessive seepage and potential breaching of the
banks
d)
If a series of check dams are required, the dams should be spaced so that the
difference in the water levels between any two dams do not fall below 300 mm
as illustrated in Figure 2.1 below.
2.2.5
Hydrology and Hydraulic of Peatland

For permanent check dam structure, it is advisable to evaluate the effects of check
dams on the designed water levels in the waterway and the necessary storage
volume analysed to efficiently meet its primary objective. Hydrological analysis on
effects of drought would be necessary to evaluate the availability of water during
prolonged dry weather condition via events and/or period-of-record of rainfall and
drought.
In peatland where any flooding has significant impacts on local residential population
and/or cropped land, a hydrologic analysis in peat areas including flood routing,
should be carried out to identify the risk and hazard of flooding.
2.2.6 Seepage Control

Seepage is to be anticipated in check dam structure either through its embankment,
bank or foundation. To control the desired water level in the waterway, excessive
loss of impounded water must be minimised. For this purpose, the design of check
dam structures should incorporate the following features,
a)
Use of low permeability materials such as clayey soil for embankment and
foundation.
b)
Incorporate an impermeable layer such as HDPE sheet in the embankment and

foundation
c)
Remove highly porous peat soil under the foundation for the check dam
structures and replace with more impermeable materials
d)
Install vertical cut-off such as interlocking sheet piles, if necessary
Pg 6
Max. Difference in W.L. between D/S

and U/S Check Dams = 300 mm
Existing Average Bank Level

Proposed Control Water Level
W.L. below Bank Level < 400 mm
Existing Average Bed Level

Proposed Check Dam
Spacing between check Dams
Figure 2.1: Proposed Location of Series of Check Dam Structures Along Waterway in Peatland
Pg 7
2.2.7
Cost
The actual cost of construction of check dam structures depends very much on the
type of core materials to be used (which is actually related to the required structures
durability and service life), conditions of site as well as the ease of construction.
Figure 2.2 below give some indications on the relative cost of the various typical check
dam structures compiled from the information provided by the various states. For the
purpose of cost comparison, the estimated cost of each type of structure indicated is
based on the assumed size of waterway shown and on site which is accessible to light
vehicles only.
~ 6.0 m
Check Dam Structure
Existing Ground Profile
~ 2.0 m
(a) : Cost Estimate For Check Dam Structure - Assumed Cross-Section
RM27,000
RM25,000
RM20,000
3.9)
Bags
filled with imported
earth (high quality
geotextile bags)
RM40,000
Cast in situ Check Structures with Gated Flow Control (Figure 3.9)
INCREASING COST
RM65,000
Precast Concrete Stacked Blocks (Figure 3.7)
Precast Concrete Post- Panel System with Flow Control (Figure 3.8)
Gabions + Mattresses with Gated Flow Control (Figure 3.6)
Loose rocks/stones (site accessible to light vehicles only (Figure 3.5)
Bags filled with imported earth (High Quality Geotextile Bags (Figure 3.4 )
RM10,000
Timber logs/ Sawn Timber (Sarawak Rate Only (Figure 3.2)
RM 5,000
Bags filled earth materials (Low quality fabric bags (Figure A2.1 and A2.2)
Assumptions For cost Estimation:
i) Dimensions of waterway as in Figure 2.2 (a)

ii) Site accessible to light vehicles only
(b) Cost comparison

Figure 2.2: Cost comparison of Typical Check Dam Structures
Pg 8
The above costs comparison served only as an overall guide on the relative cost of the
various types of check dams. The actual cost would very much depend on several factors
such as availability of materials, site accessibility, depth of peat, and design service life of
structures
Pg 9
3. TYPICAL CHECK DAMS

3.1
CLASSIFICATION OF CHECK DAM STRUCTURES

Check dams can be constructed using many different materials depending on factors
such as availability of embankment materials, ease of operation and maintenance,
site accessibility and most of all the desired service life of the structure. This
Guideline has classified the various types of check dams into three main categories
depending on the designed service life of the structure, namely:
Category of Check Dam
Expected/Design Service Life

(Before any major repair/ maintenance
is required)
(i)
Short-term (temporary)
< 2 years
(ii)
Medium term
2 to 5 years
(iii)
Long-term (permanent)
> 5 years
Some basic criteria and characteristics of the above category of check dams are listed
in Table 3.1.
Pg 10
Characteristic
Type
1. Short-term
Expected/
Designed
Service Life
(years)
< 1 years
Table 3.1: Principal Characteristics of Check Dams

Main Material
Water retention
Frequency and
Effectiveness
Components Used
Cost of
as Embankment
Maintenance
(RM)
a) Earth/sand
- without bags
High
Low
Easy
Poor
High
Low
Easy
b) Timber logs
Poor
(Average if layer of
impermeable sheet
is provided)
High
Average
Average
a) Loose stones/rocks
Poor
impermeable sheet
is provided)
High
Average
Easy
b) Stacked rocks or
Gabion type
Poor
impermeable sheet
is provided)
Average
Average
Easy
a) Precast Concrete
Stacked Blocks
Good
Low
High
Average
b) Precast Concrete
Post-Panel System
Good
Low
High
Difficult
Very Good
Low
High
Difficult
2. Medium-term
2 to 5 years
3. Long-term
> 5 years
Ease of
Construction
Poor
- fill in bags
< 2 years
Relative
Capital Cost
(RM)*
c) Cast-in-situ Concrete
Pg 11
a) Short-term (Temporary)
Very often check dam structures are constructed as a short-term measure to retain
and maintain the water level in the drain and surrounding areas due to reasons or
factors such as: Check dams are urgently required e.g. during prolong drought and imminent
occurrence of peat fire
Limited fund available for a more durable and expensive structure
Temporary in nature due to constraint of land ownership or other constraints
Inaccessibility of site which prevent the use of heavy equipment/machinery or

imported materials for construction
Owing to the temporary nature of the structures, local or light imported materials
are commonly used in the construction of the embankment of check dams which
include
(i) Locally excavated or imported earth materials (e.g. sand) either in their natural
state or put in bags (sand or earth filled bags) and stacked to act a barrier
across the waterway as shown in Figure 3.1
(ii) One or more rows of timber logs spaced and tied closely together, as illustrated
in Figure 3.2
A more detailed description on these type of check dam structures are discussed in
Section 3.1 and 3.2
b) Medium Term (Semi-permanent)
Medium term check dam structures are those designed for service life of between 2
to 5 years. For this purpose, relatively more durable materials such as stones and
rocks are used as ore material for the onstruction the check dams. The stones or
rocks used can either be in loose form or stacked (with or without encasement such
as wire cages gabions or mattresses) to the required height and size of check dam.
Normally a layer of impermeable sheet is incorporated within the rocks/stones
embankment to reduce the seepage losses through the structure as illustrated in
Figure 3.5 below
Pg 12
c)
Long-term (Permanent)
For conditions where a more permanent check structure is required, durable

materials such as reinforced concrete, whether cast-in-situ or pre-cast units are
used. As concrete structures are relatively very much more durable than other
materials, it is envisaged that these structures could easily last more than 5 years
without any major repair required.
Very often, these long-term check dam
structures are incorporated into existing or proposed drainage flow structures such
culvert and bridge crossing. Some examples of concrete check structure are shown
in Figure 3.7, 3.8 and 3.9
3.2
TYPE OF CHECK DAM STRUCTURES

There are many different types of check dam structures that can be used to control
and maintain the water level in the waterway in peatlands, depending on factors such
as the local site conditions and budget available. This section presented details of
some typical check dam structures together with some general design and
construction requirements.
User should apply appropriate design procedures and
assessment of the various types of check dam structures to suit the particular
circumstances under consideration.
3.2.1 Sand/Local Earth Filled Bags Check Dam
a)
General
Sand /Local Earth Filled Bags check dam is a series of earth-filled bags placed on a
level contour to intercept flows. It provides a relatively quick and effective way in
holding the water flow to create a pond. Some of the general requirements of earth
filled bags are:i)
Bags should be made from durable, weather resistant fabric e.g. geotextile
(unless for short-term). The fabric pores must be tight enough to retain the filler
material. The bags usually measure about the standard size of 1 m x 2 m x 0.15
m or other size as required. Low quality polypropylene (PP) woven Sugar bags or
sacks, commonly used in check dams construction, are found to be not durable as
they are easily damaged by the flows and have low UV resistance. As such, these
materials are not recommended as they normally do not last longer than a years
Pg 13
and required regular maintenance, and as such are only suitable for short-term
check dam structure.
ii)
On both side of the check dam structure, earth filled bags must be extended and
tightly abutted into the banks to prevent excessive seepage or breaching at the
banks of the check structure.
iii) The center of the check dam must be lower by at least 150mm (min) to allow
normal flows spilling to occur within the mid portion of the structure, as shown in
Figure 3.1 below.
iv) The earth-filled bags should be placed as deep as possible into the peat to
minimize any seepage through the foundation. Alternatively, the peat could be
removed and replaced with well compacted clayey soils.
b)
Materials Specifications
i)
Container Bags
They are many types of fabric bags available in the industry, varying both in term
of raw materials and their properties. However, selection of the types of bags
normally takes into consideration factors such as the service life required,
accessibility of site, ease of construction as well as relative cost of the structure.
Table 3.2 below provided a typical specification for a more durable earth or sand
filled bags (compare to PP woven Sugar bags mentioned above) that could be
used for construction of Medium-Term check dam structures.
Pg 14
Table 3.2: Specifications of Bag for Earth-filled Check Dam (Medium-Term Application)
1
Description
Dimensions of container bag
Properties
1 m x 2 m x 0.3m (Typical)
Base Material
3
4
Thickness (minimum)
Max Tensile strength (DIN EN
ISO 10319)
- machine direction
- cross machine direction
Elongation at max Tensile
strength (DIN EN ISO 10319)
- machine direction
- cross machine direction
Max tensile strength of the
seam Geotextile container
Characteristic opening size
Non-woven polypropylene, polyethylene or

polyamide fabric, sewn with a special seam
4 to 5 mm
6
7
ii)
Dimensions may vary depending

manufacturers specification
on
>25.5 kN/m
>25.5 kN/m
> 50 %
>30 %
>75%
0.08 mm
Filled Materials
Fill materials for earth-filled bags should be well graded non-cohesive material or
free from any deleterious materials. For short-term check dam where suitable
filled materials are not available, then local earth materials may be used.
Pg 15
Figure 3.1: Check Dam Structure - Type Earth/Sand Filled Bags for Medium-Term Application
Pg 16
3.2.2
Timber Check Dam

a)
General
This type of check dam is constructed using timber logs piled (or in combination with
timber boards) and tied together across a waterway to serve as a barrier to back up
the water level. It is more suitable for site where timber logs are available readily
(such as in Sarawak where timber logs are commonly used for this purpose). Figure
3.2 and Figure 3.3 illustrated the general layout of typical timber log and wood board
check dam structures respectively.
The logs should be embedded sufficiently into the ground so as to withstand the
hydraulic forces of the flowing water. Normally the barrier has to be strengthened
and supported by strutting as illustrated in shown in Figure 3.2. The top of the logs
at the center portion of the barrier should be at least 150mm lower to cater for daily
overflow. To prevent scouring downstream, stacked rocks can also be placed on the
downstream side of the dam to prevent scour during high flows.
Impermeable Sheet
(e.g. HDPE Sheet)
Timber
Logs Tied
together
Min 150 mm or as design
Actual Depth of
Logs to be
determined on site
Timber struts for
Support
Figure 3.2: Example of a Typical Timber Logs Check Dam
b)
Material Specifications
i) Timber Log
Timber log check dams are normally constructed using 100 mm to 250 mm
average diameter logs and may vary based on locally available material and site
Pg 17
requirement. Wire ropes are usually used to tie the logs together to increase its
stiffness and strength. Instead of logs, sawn timber posts and board can also be
used for construction of the check dam as shown in Figure 3.3 below.
To prevent downstream scouring, rip-rap of required size can be placed on the
bed and banks over a length of at least 1.5 times the height of the check dam
as illustrated in Figure 3.4.
ii) Impermeable Layer
A layer of impermeable materials such as HDPE sheet should be attached to the
timber logs barrier to prevent excessive loss of water through the log barrier as
shown in Figure 3.2 above
Pg 18
150 mm (min)
Figure 3.3 Example of Check Dam Structure Using Wood Board

and Posts
Rip-rap
extending into
Bank
Check Dam
Structure
(timber)
Rip-rap
extending to at
leat 1.5 X Height
of Dam
Figure 3.4: Example of Timber Check Dam with Rip-rap Protection
Works (Plan view )
Pg 19
3.2.3
Stones/Rocks Check Dam

a)
General
Stones or rocks placed on top of a blanket of engineering fabric either in loose form
or stacked tightly can also be used to block the water flows in the waterways to
create check dam structure in peatland. Hand or mechanical placement of stones or
rocks can be used depending on the accessibility of the site. Some general
requirements of stones/rocks check dams are discussed below and are as indicated
in Figure 3.5.
i)
Maximum side slopes 1.5H : 1 V
ii)
Center portion of the crest of the check dam should at least 150 mm lower than
the sides to prevent normal flows from going around the dam, and eroding the
sides of the channel.
iii) Adequate freeboard to be provided for annual flood flows

iv) Adequate scour protection downstream of check dam is to be provided for a
length at least 1.5 times the height of the check dam
v)
Rocks or stones armouring layer of at least 400mm thick should be extended

into the banks of the waterway sides to prevent erosion and breaching of the
sides of the check dam
vi) To reduce the loss of water through foundation seepage, the underlying peat
soil below the check structure should be removed and replaced with highly
impermeable soils.
b) Materials
i)
Stones / Rocks Size

All stones/rocks shall be dense, hard, durable broken or crushed granitic rocks.
They should be heavy enough to prevent the flows from pushing individual
stones downstream. For height of dam with flow velocity less than 1 m/s
maximum, the nominal stone diameter should be 100 mm to 350 mm. For flow
velocity higher than 1 m/s, the stones shall be sized in accordance standard
engineering practices.
Pg 20
Figure 3.5 Minimum Design Requirements for Stacked Stones Check

Dam.
3.2.4
Gabion Check Dam

a)
General
Stacked stones in wire cages (gabions or gabion mattresses) are also commonly
used to construct check dams. Gabions check dams are essentially the same as
stacked stones/rocks check dam structure, except that the former is wrapped in wire
fence meshes for added stability and strength. A typical drawing of a gabion check
dam structure with flow regulating gate is shown in Figure 3.6. Some of the general
requirements for gabion check dam structures are:i)
The gabions formed check dams are highly porous and as such a layer of
impermeable sheet such as HDPE need to be provided within the gabions to
reduce the seepage of water. Alternatively, highly impervious clayey soil can be
Pg 21
placed upstream of the gabions (together with a layer of geotextiles filter layer)
to retain the water in the channel
ii)
A layer of gabion flexi-mattress is usually placed on the channel bed and banks
before the required gabions are placed. The mattresses would provide a better
sitting on the uneven ground of the channel bank/bed besides providing a more
stable support for the gabions block
iii) A layer of geotextile fabric filter is placed on the soil in contact with the gabions
mattresses to prevent ingress of soil into the gabions and washing away by the
water flows
iv) Proper foundation seepage cut-off needs to be provided to enable effective
control of water level upstream. This could be done by removing the peat soils
and replacing with less permeable soil (clayey) or embedding appropriate cut-off
barriers
v)
Opening in the check dam structure may also be provided for passing flood
flows and can be gated (e.g. using timber drop boards) to raise the water level
during the dry weather.
Gabion check dams can provide a very cost-efficient alternative to those constructed
using concrete and are more resilient than concrete. They are also more durable
than sand/earth filled bags, timber logs or loose stacked stones / rocks check dams.
b)
Materials
i)
Gabions
Each stone-filled gabion usually measures about the standard size of 1.0m x
1.0 m x 1.0 m. Other size of up to 4.0 m x 1.0 m x 1.0 m are also available
The wire box cage or mattresses shall be made from galvanized wire or PVC
coated galvanized wire depending on whether they are to be used for
temporary or long-term installation
The stones in-filled shall be dense, sound and durable stones of size between
100 mm to 200 mm nominal diameter.
The gabion check dam should be designed based on the principle of mass
earth retaining walls against both the hydraulic as well as earth pressures.
Pg 22
Figure 3.6: Check Dam Structure - Type Gabion for Medium-Term Application
Pg 23
3.2.5 Precast Concrete Stacked Blocks Check Dam

a) General
Stacked precast concrete blocks can also be used for the construction of check dam
structures. An example of this type of check dam is as shown in Figure 3.7. Some
requirements for precast concrete block check dams are:i)
Proper foundation has to be provided to prevent excessive deformation and

bearing capacity failure. If necessary the layer of soft and peat soils should be
replaced.
ii)
The stacked precast concrete blocks should be stable and designed as mass
gravity wall that is able to resist both hydraulic and earth pressures.
iii) The dimensions of each individual precast block are to be decided based on
handling as well as stability requirements
iv) The precast blocks should be able to be removed swiftly in case of overtopping
and flooding problems
b) Materials
i)
Concrete
The precast blocks can varied in size to suit ease of handling and lifting,
which depend very much on the site conditions and accessibility. Standard
size of 1.0m x 1.0 m x 1.0 m. is normally adequate for flow with velocity less
than 2 m/s. However, when stacked, the check dam must be stable against
foundation bearing failure and excessive deformation.
Grade of concrete used should be C25 or higher and can be reinforced or

unreinforced.
Properly designed lifting hook have to be provided for handling and lifting
Foundation of the check dam need to be properly leveled and if necessary,

any soft ground be removed and replaced or strengthened (e.g. piling or raft
footing) before placement of concrete blocks
Pg 24
a) Side View
a) Upstream View
Figure 3.7: Precast Concrete Stacked Blocks Check Dam Structures
( Photo courtesy of JPS Klang)
3.2.6
Precast Concrete Post-Panel System Check Dam

a) General
For faster and easier construction, precast concrete retaining system comprising of
a series of regular soldier posts interspersed and connected with flat or curve slab
panels can be constructed across the waterway to retain and maintain the water
level upstream. A typical drawing of this system is detailed in Figure 3.8 which has
incorporated a flow regulating and water level control opening with timber
dropboards.
Pg 25
Some of the general features of this type of check dam structure are:
The regularly spaced precast concrete posts (piles) are embedded to

appropriate depth to serve as the main support for the dam and are interconnected with precast concrete slab panels.
Appropriate opening in the check structure with timber dropboards to control

the required water levels can be provided. These dropboards can be removed
to allow high flood flows whenever necessary. The length and elevation of
opening need to design for the necessary annual floods, thus minimizing the
need for frequent operation of the gate.
For stability of the check structure, the posts need to be embedded to the
required depth of penetration. In addition, potential seepage/piping problems
through the foundation also need to be addressed, and if necessary, the
permeable and soft peat layer is to be removed and replaced with more
suitable soil.
For downstream protection against scouring and erosion, proper lining of the
waterway should be provided e.g. using gabion mattresses or armour rocks.
To prevent breaching of the banks,
the concrete post-slab panel barrier
should be extended adequately into the existing banks and protected against
possible erosion e.g. by laying armour rocks lining.
b)
Materials
Grade A timber boards are to be used for slots
Grade of concrete used should be C40 or higher and minimum concrete
cover to be 30 mm
Pg 26
Figure 3.8: Check Dam Structure - Type Precast RC Post- Panel (with Flow Control) for Long-Term Application
Pg 27
3.2.7 Cast-in-situ Concrete Check Dam Structures

a) General
In waterway where long-term (permanent) check dam structures are required,
cast-in-situ reinforced concrete structures are preferred. Flows regulating gates and
sides spillway are normally provided to control the water level upstream as well as
discharging designed flood flows. An example of these JPSs drainage control check
structures is illustrated in the Figure 3.9
Some features of these drainage control check dam structures are:
Consist of an inlet box structures with a upstream gated opening and two side
spillways
The length and elevation of the two side spillways are designed for the
necessary flood flows, thus minimizing the need for frequent operation of the
gate. Timber drop board are used to adjust the height of the side spillways
The gate itself can be opened in case of flood flows
The foundation of the structure need to be designed for bearing capacity and
settlement as well as potential seepage/piping problems. If necessary, the
highly permeable and soft peat layer is to be removed and replaced with better
soil or strengthened with bearing piles
These structures are usually located upstream of a bund or road culvert.

Proper access platform from the bund/road to the gate control device is also
provided for ease of operation and maintenance.
The reinforced concrete structure should be designed to the latest code of

practices for structural concrete
b) Materials
Grade A timber board are to be used for spillway slots
Grade of concrete used should be C25 or higher and minimum concrete cover
to be 40 mm
Timber or concrete piles can be used for bearing and/or settlement control
PFA cement is preferred for concreting works for resistance against acid attack
Pg 28
a) Typical Cross-Section
(b) Plan View
Figure 3.9: Example of Check Dam Structure-Type Cast-in-situ Reinforced

Concrete for Long-Term Application
Pg 29
4.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES
Check dam structures need to be properly operated and maintained so that they can
continue to operate and function effectively and efficiently. Some general guidelines
on the types of maintenance works required are as listed below. This list provides
some of the normal maintenance work required and may not be applicable to all the
various types of check dams as it depends on many factors such as the types,
materials used and site conditions and location of the check dam structures.
a)
Inspect check dam structures periodically (once a fortnight) as required and after
each run-off producing storm, and throughout the dry season for any damages
where risk of peat land fire is high. Some of the possible damages include :
Damages or deterioration of the main embankment materials e.g. sand-bags

and timber logs
b)
Excessive seepage resulting in weak water level control
Bank erosion or scouring
Undermining of base of structure e.g. due to seepage
Bed degradation and erosion especially immediately downstream of structure
Washouts of check dam materials
Accumulation of sediments and debris
Damages to concrete structure or gates (if provided)
Repair, replace or reshape damaged component of check dam immediately /

periodically especially those check dams using temporary materials such as sand
bags and timber logs
c)
Remove any excessive sediments accumulation if necessary, as sometimes the

existence of sediments upstream actually helps to improve the impermeability of
the check dam. However, if the accumulated sediments have impaired the
effectively and safety of the structures, then works to clean and removed the
sediments will have to be carried out. Sediment removed shall be disposed of
properly.
d)
Regular inspections should be made to insure that the center of the check dam is
lower than the edges
e)
Erosion caused by high flows along the bed and around the edges of the dam
should be repaired immediately
Pg 30
f)
Clear all debris along canals that impedes the water flow when water has reached
the optimum level. Regular monitoring of water levels especially during the dry
periods in accordance to Standard Operation Procedure. Constant surveillance for
fires in and around the site
g)
Remove check dam structure when no longer needed
Pg 31
Appendix A:
Diagrams of Some Typical
Check Dam Structures
Pg 32
Figure A2.1: Example of a Sand-Fill Bag Check Dam

(Photo courtesy of JPS Johore)
Figure A2.2:Typical Sand-Fill Bag Check Dam Dam

(Photo courtesy of JPS Johore)
Figure A2.3: Example of Timber Log Check Dam

(Photo courtesy of JPS MIRI)
Pg 33
Figure A2.4: Example of Timber Board Check Dam

(Photo courtesy of JPS MIRI)
Figure A2.5: Example of Timber Board with Sandbags Check Dam

(Photo courtesy of Jabatan Perhutanan, Sabah)
Figure A2.6: Example of Loose Stones Check Dam

Pg 34
Figure A2.7: Example Gabion Type Check Dam
Figure A2.8: Typical Gabion Type Check Dam
Figure A2.9: Precast Concrete Block-Section Check Dam

Pg 35
REFERENCES
1. Anderson, I. and Bowen, 2000. Fire Zones and the Threat to the Wetlands of
Sumatra, Indonesia. Report of European Union and Ministry of Forestry Forest Fire
Prevention and Control Project.
2. Appanah, S. Ismail H., Samsudin, M. and Sadali, S. 1999. Flora survey in North
Selangor Peat swamp forest. In sustainable management of Peat swamp Forest in
Malaysia. Forest Department , Kuala Lumpur.
3. BAPPENAS 1999. Final Report on Planning and Drought management in Indonesia
4. Chan, HT. 1989. A forestry action plan for the North Selangor Peat Swamp Forest.
AWB, Kuala Lumpur.
5. David Lee, T.Y. Chee and F. Parish. Smart Partnership in Fire Prevention and Peat
Forest Restoration: A Case Study
6. Parish, F. and Jamil H.(eds.) 2000. Management inventory of North Selangor Peat
Swamp Forest. Danced-Forest Department Kuala Lumpur.
7. Whitmore, TC. 1984 Tropical Rainforests of the Far East. Clarendon Press, Oxford.
8. Zulkifli, Y., Vily, K. and Baharuddin, K. 1999. Hydrological characteristics of the North
Selangor Peat Swamp Forest. In Sustainable Management of Peat swamp Forest in
Malaysia. Forest Department, Kuala Lumpur
Pg 36

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Title

Guidelines For Design and

Engineering Design Guides / Manual

Check Dams, Peatland

Design and Dam Division, DID

Jabatan Pengaiiran dan Salliran Malayysia

Kementerian Sumber Asli Dan Alam Sekitar

Serial No: SSSS-TP

JABATAN PENGAIRAN DAN SALIRAN MALAYSIA

Ir. Lee Loke Chong, Director

Pn Rozaini Bt. Abdullah, Deputy Director

Mr. Ng Kim Hoy, Deputy Director

Pn. Rosilawani Bt. Sulong , Assistant Director

1.2 Limitation of Guidelines

DESIGN CONSIDERATION FOR CHECK DAM STRUCTURE

2.2 Design Considerations

2.2.1 Location of Site

2.2.2 Control Water level

2.2.3 Durability of Check Dam

2.2.4 General Layout

2.2.5 Hydrology and Hydraulic of Peatland

2.2.6 Seepage Control

TYPICAL CHECK DAMS

(b) Medium-term (Semi-permanent)

(c) Long-term (Permanent)

3.2 Type of Check Dam Structure

3.2.1 Sand / Local Earth Filled Bags Check Dam

3.2.2 Timber Check Dam

3.2.3 Stones / Rocks Check Dam

3.2.4 Gabions Check Dam

3.2.5 Precast Concrete Stacked Blocks Check Dam

3.2.6 Precast Concrete Post-panel System Check Dam

3.2.7 Cast-in-situ Concrete check Dam

GENERAL MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES

Location of Series of check Dam Structures Along Waterway in

Cost comparison of Typical Check Dam Structures

Check Dam Structure Type Earth/Sand Filled Bags for Medium

Example of a Typical Timber logs Check Dam

Example of a Check Dam Structure Using Wood Board and Posts

Example of a Timber Check Dam with Rip-rap Protection Works

Minimum Design Requirements for Stacked Stones Check Dam.

Check Dam Structure Type Gabions with Gated Flow Control

Precast Concrete Stacked Blocks Check Dam Structure

Check Dam Structure Type RC Post-Panel (with Flow Control)

Example of a Check Dam Structure Type Cast-in-situ

Example of a Sand-Fill Bag Check Dam

Typical Sand-Fill Bag Check Dam Dam

Example of Timber board Check Dam

Example of Loose Stones Check Dam

Example of Loose Stones Check Dam

Example Gabion Type Check Dam

Typical Gabion Type check Dam

Principal Characteristic of Check Dams

Specifications of Geosynthetics Bag for Earth-filled Check Dam

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

specifications, hydraulic and geotechnical considerations.

Operasi Untuk Melaksanakan Program Pencegahan Kebakaran di Tanah Gambut

As such, sound engineering judgment from

2. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR

PURPOSE OF CHECK DAM

Timber logs check dam see Figure A2.3 and A2.4

Loose stones/rocks check dam - see Figure A2.5

Stacked stones/rocks in encasement (gabions) check dam - see Figure A2.6

Control Water Level