A diversion is a channel with a supporting ridge on the lower side constructed across the slope. Diversions are used to divert water away from active gullies or critically eroding areas, supplement water management on conservation cropping or strip cropping systems, break up concentrations of water on long, gentle slopes and on undulating or warped land surfaces that are generally considered too flat or irregular for terracing. Other uses include diverting water away from farmsteads, agricultural waste systems, and other improvements, collecting or directing water for water-spreading or water-harvesting systems, to increase or decrease the drainage area above ponds, to protect terrace systems by diverting water from the top terrace where topography, land use, or landownership prevents terracing the land above, to intercept surface and shallow subsurface flow, protect flat lands from upland runoff and overland flow from adjacent areas, control runoff and erosion on urban or developing areas, construction sites, and surface mine sites, and to act as a grass filter for reducing sediment in runoff waters when vegetated.

Topics: Assessment of Suitability Planning and Preliminary Design Considerations Diversion Types Slope, Velocity, Cross-Sectional Shape Vegetative Considerations Sedimentation Control Outlet Design Data Collection Procedures Capacity and Stability Measures Alternate Channel Linings Layout and Construction of Diversions.

Intended Audience: water resources, civil, geotechnical, land development, construction, and hydraulics engineers. However, this course could appeal to engineers of other disciplines as well. 

Publication Source: USDA - Natural Resource Conservation Service