On an annual basis, Douglas County performs stabilization and dust control on about half of the total gravel roads in our transportation network. Keeping dust down on gravel roads is important because if not controlled it can cause damage to our health and the environment. By applying the proper dust suppressant to gravel roads, we do the following:
- Reduce dust emissions, thereby providing a healthier air environment.
- Increase road safety and ride comfort.
- Reduce the need and cost of vehicle repair.
- Reduce road maintenance activities and aggregate replacement.
One of our main gravel road stabilization methods consists of using a liquid dust suppression material sprayed into the top 3-inches of the gravel road surface. This method includes grading the road and compacting the 3 inches of disturbed gravel. Another method we use is a topical sprayed-on treatment of either water or liquid dust suppressant.