The following figures show the proper design and maintenance to minimize the effects of erosion on our hillsides and slopes and what can happen if the design or maintenance is not up to standard.

An alternative that should disperse the water better

Please be aware that unchecked erosion or improper drainage can have serious consequences.  Repair of damaged hillsides is difficult and very expensive (examples within RHEN have ranged from ~$8,000 to over $30,000), so proper design and maintenance is the best protection.  Landslide insurance is just about impossible to get in California in areas where there has been previous slides (as has already occurred in RHEN).  Therefore, extreme care is needed and any beginning erosion observed requires prompt repairs.  At the first sign of erosion, you should contact a registered soils engineer to advise  you on any action you should take for your particular circumstances.