How must rock be placed during the installation of a rock ditch check?

The placement of rock during the installation of a rock ditch check is best conducted by hand or mechanical placement. This method allows for more precise control over the distribution and alignment of the rocks. Proper placement is essential to ensure that the ditch check functions effectively to slow down water flow, trap sediment, and prevent erosion in the surrounding area.

Using hand or mechanical placement enables the inspector or crew to adjust the positioning of individual rocks, ensuring they fit snugly and create a stable barrier that will redirect water as intended. This controlled approach helps maintain the integrity of the ditch check over time, providing better overall performance in sediment control.

Other methods of placement, like mechanical dumping, can lead to piles of rock that are inadequately spread out, potentially hindering the structure's ability to function. Random placement along the channel could also result in gaps that would allow water to bypass the rock check. Lastly, while aligning the rocks according to flow direction can be important, it is not sufficient on its own without the careful and deliberate placement that the chosen method provides.