The Center for Dirt and Gravel Road Studies (CDRGS) at Penn State University is an innovative research and outreach program dedicated to improving the sustainability and environmental impact of unpaved roadways. Founded in the late 1990s, the Center was established to address the unique challenges posed by the vast network of dirt and gravel roads in Pennsylvania and beyond. These roads, while essential for access to rural areas, agricultural lands, and forested regions, can contribute to environmental degradation if not properly maintained. The Center’s mission is to research, develop, and promote environmentally sensitive maintenance practices that mitigate erosion, sediment runoff, and other ecological impacts of dirt and gravel roads.
History of the CDRGS
The CDGRS was formed in response to growing concerns from environmental agencies and local communities about the negative effects of sediment and pollution entering waterways from poorly maintained unpaved roads. Since dirt and gravel roads are often unsealed, they are more susceptible to erosion, which leads to sediment and runoff that can degrade streams and aquatic habitats. To combat these issues, the Pennsylvania Legislature established the Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road Maintenance Program, funding research initiatives at the CDGRS aimed at creating sustainable road management practices. The Center strives to improve water quality, road longevity, and environmental sustainability by researching best practices, providing education and training to municipalities, and implementing real-world projects.
At the core of the Center’s work is its focus on environmentally-sound maintenance techniques that reduce the harmful effects of sediment on streams and wildlife habitats. The CDGRS conducts research on road surface materials, erosion control, and water management strategies to minimize the ecological impact of dirt and gravel roads. By working closely with local governments, conservation districts, and other stakeholders, the Center provides the resources and knowledge needed to implement low-impact solutions. It also runs educational programs and conferences to equip road maintenance crews with the skills necessary to reduce environmental damage while ensuring road durability.
Where Hartman Products Fits In
One key area of focus for the Center for Dirt and Gravel Road Studies is water drainage management, particularly in addressing the erosion problems caused by improper water diversion around roads. In this regard, drainage walls—such as endwalls and headwalls—play a crucial role in controlling the flow of water and preventing erosion along unpaved roads. The Center has explored various designs and materials for drainage walls, seeking solutions that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
In recent years, the Center has taken an interest in innovative drainage systems, such as those produced by Hartman Products. Our SIP walls have proven to be a game changer in managing road drainage. Hartman Products plastic endwalls and headwalls are lightweight, easy to install, and highly durable, making them an ideal solution for the kinds of unpaved roads the Center studies. The SIP walls minimize erosion by providing a solid and stable surface for water to pass through, without the wear and tear that traditional materials like concrete or stone often experience. Their durability and resistance to weathering reduce long-term maintenance costs—an important factor for the Center as it strives to promote sustainable and cost-effective road management practices.
Through its research, educational outreach, and support for innovative product lines that benefit rural roadways, the Center continues to explore innovative drainage solutions that enhance both road durability and environmental sustainability. By integrating modern products and practices, the Center’s efforts to manage runoff and erosion have gained momentum, providing local governments and rural communities with practical and efficient methods to maintain their dirt and gravel roads while protecting nearby ecosystems.