if this is a "dam" - the current practice is to install a system to control the seepage such as a filter diaphragm. This will intercept the seepage, and convey it through the embankment effectively eliminating piping or erosion. Seepage collars have not proven to be particularly effective.
For a non-critical application, use could use Lanes' weighted creep method. (E.W. Lane 1935)
the weighted creep distance is the sum of the vertical creep distances Lv, plus one third of the horizontal creep distances Lh. The weighted creep head ratio is given by the following formula:
Cw = (Lh+3Lv)/3Hdf
where Hdf is the effective hydraulic head
seepage is controlled by increasing the seepage length by using cutoff walls, collars such that Cw is increased to a conservative value. recommended values for various foundation materials are:
very fine sand/silt 8.5
fine sand 7.0
medium sand 6.0
coarse sand 5.0
fine gravel 4.0
medium gravel 3.5
coarse gravel, cobbles 3.0
boulders, cobbles, gravel 2.5
soft clay 3.0
medium clay 2.0
hard clay or hardpan 1.6
Chuck
cgopperton@stantec.com