Mechanically Stabilized Earth Walls – the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Learn all there is about Mechanically Stabilized Earth Wall (MSE) design and construction in this online training webinar.

1 PDH / 0.1 CEU

Driven by the development of leading edge technology and advanced geosynthetic materials, mechanically stabilized earth walls (MSE) are rapidly growing in use. Already representing more than half of our roadway retaining walls AND offering transportation infrastructure a cost-effective solution (especially in problem areas with right-of-way restrictions), MSEs are becoming a key application in transportation infrastructure construction’s tool box. Are MSEs in your toolbox? And what opportunities are there to apply MSEs in your projects?

Join returning speaker David Hein for the third session in our 5-session Roadways Design and Construction Master Class Series, exploring the good, the bad…and the ugly of Mechanically Stabilized Earth Wall (MSE) design, construction, advantages, real-world applications, and how you can apply MSE walls as a cost-effective solution in your roadway or construction projects.

In this webinar, we’ll take a look at the many types of MSE walls (categorized by: geometry of reinforcement, mechanism used to transfer stress, type of reinforcement material, geometry of the wall facing, etc.) and their current real-world applications. Within this discussion, we’ll investigate the MSE design key factors, considerations, and parameters, and how you can select the appropriate parameters, materials, and contracting methods to successfully design an MSE that meets your project’s goals. We’ll also take a look at construction inspection activities, and how you can identify these during design, and track to them during your project to plan for (and confirm) design compliance. Finally, Hein will walk through a series of real-world case studies of the “good”, the “bad”, and the “ugly” applications of MSE walls demonstrating the key lessons learned to apply in your project for long-term success.

Learning Objectives 
Attendees can expect the discussion and education of the following learning objectives.

  • Realize the potential MSE wall applications have for transportation facilities.
  • Understand the primary design considerations and how to select appropriate parameters for design.
  • Identify how to check contractor submitted designs for MSE walls.
  • Know how to select appropriate specification and contracting methods.
  • Learn about appropriate construction inspection activities to confirm compliance with design.


* Each state and certification agency has different requirements; it is your responsibility to know what they are. Note that 1 PDH = 0.1 CEU.
* Purchase of this course allows you access to the presentation(s) for 6 months from the order date.

About Instructors

David Hein, P. Eng.

President, American Society of Civil Engineers Transportation and Development Institute

Not Enrolled

Course Includes

  • 1 Lesson
  • 1 Quiz
  • Course Certificate