MSE Wall Wildlife Consideration

[Grouser]

I have noticed a variety of MSE wall exterior surface patterns, presumably for asthetic purposes. I have not seen a pattern that could be used by wildlife, particluly birds, for homes or shelter and I am wondering why not. Cliff swallows would love an above-ground place to build a nest with an overhang for weather protection. Other birds would only need a supported spot to build a nest upon.

Is there a degredation concern for the MSE panel concrete from the guano or scat? Are there appearance issues for the same or other reasons? I can't see why it's not done. Maybe some of you MSE designers, manufacturers and specifiers would care to comment.

Thanks.

Grouser

 

[blueoak]

I am none of those, but I think you have to ask first. Bridges over rivers make great habitat for swallows or bats, but until the bridge designers are asked they will generally do the best design at the best price for their client. The environmental holistic approach is good when it actually gives designers feedback and asks your question upfront before funding has been set.

 

[longisland]

I believed what you're looking for is a geogrid wall instead of MSE wall. RC surface panels are used in MSE not only for aesthetic reasons but as an integral part of the wall to hold the metal tie backs. On the other hand, no surface panel is needed in geogrid wall since the geogrid is wrapped around the wall in layers. You may hydroseed the wall facing. The only draw back is i heard cases that campers burned the wall by accident.

 

[Grouser]

Thanks for the responses.

blueoak
A big portion of the reason for my post was to promote the concept that civil works can have attributes beyond primary function. I realize that attracting wildlife may increase undesirable exposure conditions but I believe they can be mitigated by designing-in cleanable nest/roost sites and using acid-proof coatings. The "nests" in another configuration could be used to grow attractive plants to dress up or naturalize the wall.

longisland
I'm not as familiar with geogrid as I am with MSE. Can the embankment have a vertical or overhanging face with geogrid?

Thanks