Debris problems can cause even an adequately designed culvert to experience hydraulic capacity problems. Debris may consist of anything from limbs and sticks to logs and trees. Silt, sand, gravel, and boulders can also be classified as debris. The culvert site is a natural place for these materials to settle and accumulate. No method is available for accurately predicting debris problems. Examining the maintenance history of each site is the most reliable way of determining potential problems. Sometimes, upsizing a culvert is necessary to enable it to more effectively pass debris. Upsizing may also allow a culvert to be more easily cleaned. The PEO must consult with the RHE for guidance on potential culvert debris issues.
