Stabilisation works following the 2023 severe weather event
On behalf of the Municipality of Ravne na Koroškem, we carried out stabilisation works on a landslide and slope failure in the Tolsti vrh area, along the local Dobrava–Tolsti vrh–Kneps road. The so-called Lipovnik II landslide was triggered during the severe weather event in August 2023, affecting a forested slope below the local road.
Although the landslide did not pose an immediate threat to the road itself, further slope movements and erosion could have endangered the main road and railway line located further downhill. The aim of the stabilisation works was to stabilise the area, prevent further movement of material and reduce the risk to the infrastructure below.
Slope stabilisation and prevention of further landslides
The stabilisation works began with the removal of trees and undergrowth. The displaced material was removed manually and mechanically, and the slope was levelled and prepared for the installation of protective systems. Part of the removed material was reused to fill gabion structures, which were installed to reinforce the forest tracks.
The main measure involved installing high-tensile anchored wire mesh systems, secured to the underlying ground, to help stabilise the slope and prevent further movements. Before installing the mesh, we provided additional slope protection using geotextile or coconut fibre mesh to help reduce soil erosion and washout.
Particular attention was also paid to the watercourse running through the gully, as increased water flow during heavy rainfall could accelerate erosion. The channel was reshaped and protected with galvanised steel mesh anchored to the underlying ground.
Due to the steep terrain and limited accessibility in certain areas, we also used specialist rope-access drilling equipment. The transportation of equipment and materials to individual work sites was adapted to the challenging site conditions.
Project highlight: a barrier for landslide debris retention
In the lower part of the area, we installed a 3.5-metre-high Geobrugg SL-150 barrier designed to retain shallow landslide material, debris and rocks. The barrier is anchored laterally and into the rock foundation at the rear, helping to limit the downslope movement of material during heavy rainfall. This is the first barrier of its kind to be installed in Slovenia.
The successful completion of these challenging works is largely thanks to our experienced team, whose expertise, dedication and excellent cooperation enable us to overcome even the most demanding challenges in the field.
