Commercial Case Study: Submerged Gravel Wetland & Grass Swale

US Army Blossom Point Research Facility Site Development

The Challenge

The project required the precise excavation and structural assembly of a submerged gravel wetland and grass swale facility. The site demanded strict adherence to exact elevation grades, including a bottom facility grade of 14.58′ and topsoil grades reaching 17.50′. The primary excavation dimensions were nominally set at 77′ x 18′. Furthermore, the construction mandated specific compliance with the Maryland Stormwater Design Manual for the introduction of native wetland plant species.

The Solution

Precision Land Works executed a highly controlled sequence of excavation and site stabilization over the course of eight days. The structural solution was executed in key phases:

Phase 1: Excavation and Base Preparation

  • We stripped topsoil and excavated the facility to the required 14.58′ elevation, lining the interior walls with non-woven geotextile fabric along the full perimeter.
  • Our team applied a thin basecoat of wash gravel and assembled the underdrain system using Schedule 40 perforated and solid PVC pipe wrapped completely in 1/4″ galvanized hardware cloth.
  • An aluminum foot plate (12″ x 12″ x 0.5″) was set to securely support the observation well and low-level outlet.

Phase 2: Drainage Assembly and Bulk Backfill

  • We precisely assembled the observation well and cleaned out upright pipes, maintaining strict level positioning during backfill.
  • The system was backfilled in structural layers using 154 tons of wash gravel (brought to grade 16.583′) and 22 tons of pea gravel (brought to grade 16.833′).

Phase 3: Topsoil, Grass Swale, and Spillway Construction

  • We executed the bulk topsoil backfill using 66 tons of planting soil, bringing the grade to 17.50′ while cutting back the side banks to a maximum 2-1 slope.
  • A grass swale was carefully cut and graded to 6 inches deep and 6 feet wide.
  • We constructed the emergency spillway using a pressure-treated ground contact-rated baffle board (top elevation 18.84′), geotextile fabric, Class I Rip Rap, and 2-inch stone contoured to merge with the existing grade.

The Results

Precision Land Works executed a highly controlled sequence of excavation and site stabilization over the course of eight days. The structural solution was executed in key phases:

The wetland and swale systems were successfully completed, stabilized, and brought to their final grades on October 23, 2024. To ensure immediate compliance and long-term environmental stability, the final deliverables included:

  • Observation wells and cleanout pipes were cut down to a final elevation of 19.5′ and securely sealed with screw caps.
  • Native vegetation per the site plan—specifically Duck Potato (bare root), Pickerel Weed (plug), and Pond Weed (bare root)—were systematically planted and thoroughly watered.
  • The entire site was finish-graded, seeded with Contractors Conservation Mixture, and fertilized.
  • Comprehensive erosion control was established by installing 7 rolls of matting, 1 roll of curlex, and applying blown straw (using a FINN blower) across all exterior disturbed areas.

Materials Used

  • 154 tons of wash gravel & 22 tons of pea gravel
  • 66 tons of planting soil
  • Schedule 40 perforated and solid pipe with fittings
  • 12″x12″x.5″ aluminum foot plate & 1/4″ hardware cloth
  • Non-woven geotextile fabric

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