Observations/Finding

As requested, the site was visited by our AS Engineering and Consulting (ASEC) representative for the purpose of providing quality control inspection and testing services.  Visual observation techniques were employed to verify compliance with project drawing/specifications, applicable codes, and materials submittals. The following observations were observed on site this day.

Location: Sterlington Entrance, St. 1+25 to 2+00

Equipment Used:

• Ride-on vibratory sheepsfoot, excavator, off road dump trucks.
• Troxler 3430 (Serial #30942) nuclear density gauge.

Summary: Upon arrival at the site, compaction work was ongoing at the entrance section of Sterlington from St. 1+25 to 2+00, including the area designated for the future roadway. Compaction was being carried out using a ride-on vibratory sheepsfoot. A Troxler 3430, with serial number 30942, was employed to test the compaction.

Initial Conditions: An established Density Moisture Ratio (Proctor) of 94.8 Dry Density (DD) and 25% Moisture (M) was utilized, with a required 90% compaction at a depth of 12 feet below finished grade.

Test Results: The first test yielded unsatisfactory results, with a Dry Density of 79.4 and Moisture of 33%. This lower compaction and higher moisture content were attributed to a previous rain event.

Action Taken: A discussion was held with the site foreman, and the soils were scarified to lower the moisture content. No further compaction was conducted on that day.

Excavation: An excavation was initiated near the entrance after movement was detected at the future roadway, specifically at St. 1+00 at minus 13 elevation. Upon exploration, a previous buried pit measuring approximately 50 feet x 40 feet x 10 feet deep was uncovered. Buried organics were found in this area. The area has been refilled with quality structural material, with the surplus material currently stored onsite. The intention is to sift through this material to eliminate sizable stumps and large organic matter. The finer material will be distributed over the site as topsoil, while the larger organic pieces will be transported offsite.

Inclement Weather: As a rain event commenced, the full extent of the buried pit could not be determined. Further exploration of buried material was deferred to another day. After removing the exposed organics, the excavation was backfilled to prevent damage from the rain.

Conclusion: Compaction efforts were hindered by adverse weather conditions, but steps were taken to mitigate moisture levels in the soil. The buried trash identified on this day was removed satisfactorily and replaced with structural material.  Further work and testing will be conducted in areas still deficient in compaction before proceeding with the backfill process as weather conditions permit.

section worked at entrance

organics found

burry pit found

testing at entrance future road st. 1+75

burry pit exploration