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U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chooses Flexamat® for Erosion Control Projects
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for protecting critical infrastructure, waterways, levees, shorelines, and stormwater systems across some of the most demanding hydraulic environments in the country. For many of these applications, engineers require erosion control systems that combine long-term performance, constructability, environmental compatibility, and resiliency.
That is why articulated concrete block systems like Flexamat® are frequently utilized on projects involving channel stabilization, levee armoring, shoreline protection, spillways, inlet and outlet protection, and flood mitigation infrastructure
Engineered for Long-Term Hydraulic Performance
USACE projects are often exposed to high velocities, fluctuating water elevations, wave action, overtopping events, and repeated wet-dry cycles. Flexamat provides permanent armoring while remaining flexible enough to conform to subgrade movement and changing site conditions.
Unlike rigid poured concrete systems, Flexamat’s articulated design allows the mat to maintain contact with the underlying soil surface, helping reduce undermining and localized scour. The system is designed to dissipate hydraulic energy while protecting slopes and channels from erosion.
Vegetated Protection that Works with Natural Systems
Environmental stewardship is a major consideration on USACE projects. Flexamat supports vegetation establishment through the open spacing between concrete blocks, allowing grasses and native vegetation to grow within the system while still providing hard armor protection.
This vegetated approach helps maintain a more natural appearance and can support stormwater infiltration, sediment stabilization, and ecological compatibility along waterways and embankments. Flexamat is commonly selected when agencies want the durability of concrete protection without the visual and environmental impacts associated with fully hard-armored channels or riprap.
Reliable Performance During Flood Events
USACE infrastructure must perform during extreme storm and flood conditions. Flexamat has been utilized on projects exposed to major flooding events, rapid flow velocities, and prolonged inundation.
Because the system is manufactured in interconnected rolls, it provides continuous protection across large areas while reducing the risk of displacement during high-flow conditions. Case studies have documented successful performance on riverbanks, levees, and flood-prone infrastructure following significant storm events and extended submergence.
Faster Installation for Large-Scale Projects
Many USACE projects involve large footprints and compressed construction schedules. Flexamat is packaged in rolls that can be rapidly deployed using standard construction equipment, helping contractors install large quantities of erosion protection efficiently.
This streamlined installation process can reduce labor requirements, minimize time spent working near waterways, and accelerate project completion timelines compared to some traditional armoring methods.
Adaptable Across Multiple USACE Applications
Flexamat is used in a wide variety of civil and hydraulic engineering applications commonly associated with USACE work, including:
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Channel and ditch stabilization
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Shoreline and streambank protection
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Levee and spillway armoring
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Culvert inlet and outlet protection
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Flood control infrastructure
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Low water crossings
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Utility and pipeline protection
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Emergency erosion repairs
Its flexibility allows engineers to adapt the system to varying slopes, soil conditions, hydraulic requirements, and environmental objectives.
Reduced Maintenance Compared to Traditional Solutions
USACE owners and operators prioritize solutions that minimize long-term maintenance costs and operational disruptions. Compared to loose riprap and other erosion control alternatives, Flexamat can provide a more stable and uniform armored surface that resists displacement and simplifies inspection and maintenance activities.
The low-profile system also reduces debris snagging and can allow for mowing access and routine maintenance operations in vegetated applications.
Faster Installation for Large-Scale Projects
Articulated concrete block systems are widely recognized throughout the civil engineering industry for erosion control and scour protection applications. Engineers, contractors, and infrastructure agencies regularly utilize these systems where durability, hydraulic stability, and environmental integration are critical project requirements.
With its combination of permanent erosion protection, vegetation compatibility, rapid installation, and proven field performance, Flexamat continues to be a trusted solution for demanding infrastructure and water resource projects nationwide.