By: JP George, Business Manager, Presto Geosystems

In the nonstop rush to complete the latest to-dos, leisure time often gets pushed aside. Yet those moments we spend doing what we love are essential. Whether it’s a quiet walk through the woods, a yoga class, cycling, painting, gaming, gardening, or a round of golf, these activities help us recharge and reconnect.

Unfortunately, most of us have far too little time for the activities we enjoy, so when recreational spaces are disrupted by repairs, maintenance, or new construction, minimizing downtime matters. Fast project completion can make the difference between weeks of closure and getting people back to enjoying their favorite activities.

Golf Course Construction Without the Lengthy Downtime

A friend of mine, Patrick, is an avid golfer. Unlike me, where golf is equal parts relaxation and frustration, Patrick actually knows what he is doing and thoroughly enjoys it.

Like many of us, Patrick balances work, family, and a packed schedule, so finding time for golf isn’t easy. One of his favorite courses, Kings Mill in Virginia, recently underwent “playable area” repairs following a major storm event. Restoring the damaged sections required heavy construction equipment to move across the course fairways and surrounding areas to complete the work.

Anyone familiar with golf courses knows how important turf conditions are to the playing experience. In the spring, even golf cart traffic can affect fairways and surrounding areas. Now factor in excavators, dump trucks, or utility equipment, and the need for a reliable solution to reduce turf disturbance during construction becomes clear.

Patrick recommended using the GEOTERRA® GTO Construction Mats to create a temporary construction access road that would protect the course while allowing crews to complete repairs quickly and efficiently, but most importantly, allowing Patrick and others get back to playing golf sooner.

Fast Deploying Access Mats for Soft Ground Conditions

The GEOTERRA GTO Construction Mats connected faster than you can yell “FORE!” and created an access road for heavy equipment to get in and get the job done.

Using the large HDPE bolts to connect the interlocking mats, crews quickly created a stable temporary access road capable of supporting heavy-duty construction equipment over soft ground conditions. The GEOTERRA GTO Mats distributed equipment loads evenly, helping prevent rutting, turf damage, and costly surface repairs.

Once the repairs were completed, the bolts were removed and the GEOTERRA GTO Mats were reclaimed and ready to use on the next project.

The golf course was able to reopen faster and get players back on the greens sooner. And Patrick? He’s happily back to chasing birdies and slicing shots.

Protect your leisure time, friends. Get in, get the job done quickly, and then get to what really makes you happy … like Patrick valuing his tee time!

Benefits of GEOTERRA GTO Turf Protection Mats for Golf Courses and Recreational Facilities

• Fast deploy and disassemble
• Protects turf and landscaped surfaces
• Supports heavy construction equipment
• Reduces site restoration costs
• Minimizes course and facility downtime
• Reusable for future projects
• Ideal for soft or wet ground conditions

Protect Leisure Time

Whether it’s a golf course, public park, trail system, sports complex, or outdoor event space, recreational facilities are valuable community assets. Using temporary access mats during construction helps contractor’s complete projects efficiently while protecting the spaces people enjoy most.

Need temporary access solutions for soft ground conditions?

GEOTERRA GTO Mats help contractors protect turf, reduce downtime, and keep recreational spaces operational during construction and repair projects.

Contact us today for project quote.

Thank you to all who participated in our recent webinar, “Best Practices for Installing the GEOWEB® Geocell System,” and for submitting your technical questions regarding GEOWEB® Geocells.

Based on the discussion and submitted inquiries, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked topics to help clarify how the GEOWEB system works and where it delivers the greatest value.

If you didn’t catch the live webinar, view the on-demand webinar here and earn PDH credits.

Q1. How difficult is it to address a poor or failed subgrade with GEOWEB Geocells?

Addressing a poor subgrade with the GEOWEB systems is typically straightforward and highly effective when properly designed. Rather than relying on deep undercutting or chemical soil treatment, the GEOWEB system mechanically stabilizes weak soils by confining the infill and distributing loads laterally. This reduces vertical stress on the subgrade and minimizes rutting and shear deformation. From a construction standpoint, installation is simple and often completed with only minimal subgrade preparation. Even in very weak conditions (CBR < 3%), the GEOWEB system can significantly reduce required aggregate thickness while improving overall performance, making it a more reliable and more cost-effective solution than traditional stabilization methods.

To eliminate uncertainty, we offer a free project evaluation service. By submitting basic project details including subgrade strength, vehicle type and number of passes, our engineering team can assess site conditions and recommend an appropriate, project-specific solution.

To receive a free project evaluation based on your site specific conditions, please submit your project details at: https://www.prestogeo.com/free-project-evaluation/

Q2. Why is geotextile fabric installed beneath the GEOWEB Geocells for load support applications?

A geotextile, either a non-woven or enhanced woven (high performance) is placed below the GEOWEB system to preserve long-term performance by providing separation, filtration, and controlled drainage. In low subgrade CBR conditions or where differential settlement may be a concern, enhanced woven geotextiles are typically used.

When enhanced woven geotextiles are used, they help prevent soil migration and clogging while also providing additional reinforcement and the ability to bridge localized weak or soft areas.

Please Note: Slit tape woven geotextiles are not recommended for the GEOWEB Load Support applications. Slit tape geotextiles do not provide adequate filtration and have limited drainage capability, with typical open areas of only 1 to 2%.

As part of our free evaluation, our engineering team will recommend the appropriate geotextile type and strength based on site specific conditions. To receive a free project evaluation, please submit your project details at: https://www.prestogeo.com/free-project-evaluation/

Q3. How much of a wear surface is required over the top of the GEOWEB system?

For load support applications, a wear surface is typically placed over the GEOWEB system. The required material type and thickness depends on the specific application, loading conditions, traffic type, and desired surface type (aggregate, asphalt, concrete).

All load support applications require some form of wear surface to protect the system and ensure proper load transfer. In other applications, such as slope protection and channel armoring, the infill is flush with the top of the GEOWEB geocell.

Overall, cover requirements are project-specific and should be determined based on design criteria and site-specific conditions, but a minimum of 2” is generally required.

Q4. Are the ATRA® Stakes driven through the geotextile underlayment?

For load support applications, ATRA Stakes are generally not required unless the roadway is on a slope. In slope protection or channels armoring applications, ATRA Stakes are typically driven through the geotextile to ensure the system remains securely positioned during infilling and to transfer loads into the subgrade, helping to prevent sliding and enhance overall system stability.

ATRA Stake spacing and installation pattern are determined through the free project evaluation based on your specific site conditions; therefore, the use of standard tables and graphs is not recommended, as each project has unique design requirements. To receive a free project evaluation, please submit your project details at: https://www.prestogeo.com/free-project-evaluation/

Q5. What is the typical design life of GEOWEB Geocells?

The design life of the GEOWEB System can be tailored to meet specific project requirements. Roadway projects commonly require a 20-year design life, while other civil or infrastructure projects may require 50 to 100 years. GEOWEB Geocells are manufactured from a proprietary blend of 100% virgin high-density polyethylene (HDPE) stabilized with 1 to 2% carbon black. Carbon black stabilizes the material by protecting against UV resistance exposure, oxidation, and environmental aging.

The GEOWEB Geocell material has been laboratory tested to withstand continuous, direct UV exposure for periods up to 149 years without experiencing material degradation. In most applications, the GEOWEB system is buried, which further extends its service life by protecting it from prolonged UV exposure and environmental extremes. As a result, the GEOWEB system is considered a long-term stabilization solution with overall durability governed more by project design criteria and site-specific conditions than by limitations of the material itself.

Q6. How tall can a GEOWEB MSE Wall be?

GEOWEB Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) Walls do not have a fixed height limitation, provided there is adequate space to accommodate the required soil reinforcement tiebacks. In accordance with FHWA and AASHTO design guidelines, reinforcement lengths typically extend 70% of the wall height.

For tall walls, the GEOWEB system is commonly used as a flexible fascia in combination with geogrid or geotextile soil reinforcement. The ultimate wall height is controlled by internal and external requirements including sliding, overturning, bearing capacity, and global stability. As with all MSE structures, proper drainage is critical to long-term performance.

When site constraints limit feasible tieback lengths, terracing is an effective solution. Rather than constructing a single tall vertical wall, the total elevation change is divided into multiple shorter, independently designed walls, reducing reinforcement lengths and improving constructability.

To receive a free project evaluation, please submit your project details at https://www.prestogeo.com/free-project-evaluation/.

The GEOWEB system has been successfully used on numerous high-wall projects over the years. Examples of these installations can be found in the Geosystems Project Gallery: https://www.prestogeo.com/gallery_presto/products/soil-stabilization/geoweb-retaining-walls/?type=casestudy

Q7. Do you perform overturning analysis and global stability checks for earth retention systems?

Yes, these analyses can be provided; however, the level of design support depends on the amount and quality of soils information available as well as the specific project needs. In all cases, it is recommended that an independent geotechnical engineer review and verify global stability analyses. Providing detailed information such as soil properties, groundwater conditions, seismic parameters, and overall site geometry allows for a more comprehensive and accurate evaluation.

For added flexibility, we offer a free MSE Wall Design Software for those who prefer to complete calculations internally. Alternatively, our experienced engineering team is available to assist with project reviews or through a project specific evaluation.

Request the free MSE Wall Design Software here: https://www.prestogeo.com/design/soil-stabilization/geoweb-mse-wall-software/

Q8. Do the GEOWEB Geocells come in different colors (e.g., green or blue) to blend with nature?

Standard GEOWEB geocell material is black, as 1 to 2% carbon black is added for UV stabilization to enhance durability and long-term performance.

For projects where aesthetics is a priority, particularly in earth retention applications, colored fascia options are available in a tan or green to better blend with the surrounding environment. To ensure long-term performance of the colored fascia panels, hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) are added to protect against UV radiation and environmental exposure, helping to maintain structural integrity and appearance over the design life.

If a specific color requirement is desired, custom options may be considered depending on project requirements and quantities.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

We received even more questions than we could address during our webinar allotted time, and we appreciate the strong participation and engagement. If your questions weren’t addressed or if you’d like help with a specific project, we’d be happy to help and hear from you.

You can reach us directly using the contact information provided during the session, or email [email protected] to get started with a free project evaluation.

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) recently released their quadrennial Infrastructure Report Card. America’s infrastructure earned an overall grade of C, which is a minor improvement over 2021’s grade of C-minus and the highest grade received since the report card’s inception in 1998. While the report card is trending in the right direction, we are not quite ready to hang it on the fridge.

There is still a lot of work and investment required to make up for decades of underinvestment and deferred maintenance, especially as climate change, population growth, and aging systems continue to place added stress on our infrastructure. Without sustained funding, strategic planning, and public-private collaboration, many critical systems — from levees and roads to drinking water and stormwater management — will remain vulnerable and inefficient.

The report card assesses and assigns grades to 18 categories of American infrastructure, including Bridges, Energy, Ports, Rail, Roads, and Stormwater. Half of the categories received a grade in the “D” range. This means that the civil engineers who evaluated these categories determined that the infrastructure is “poor, at risk.” According to the report card, this is, “…a clear sign that more needs to be done to improve the health of America’s built environment.”

Categories that received a grade in the “D” range include Dams, Energy, Levees, Roads, Schools, Stormwater, Transit, and Wastewater. These systems are critical to the overall health and wellbeing of our communities, and vital to commerce and economic stability at local, regional, and national levels.

Solutions to Improve America’s Infrastructure Grade

The 2025 Infrastructure Report Card underscores that while recent progress is promising, significant challenges remain. Federal investment through landmark legislation like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has helped reverse decades of stagnation, but the work is far from done. According to ASCE’s 2024 Bridging the Gap study, an additional $2.9 trillion is still needed across 11 infrastructure sectors to reach and maintain a state of good repair — a level that would earn a “B” on the Report Card.

Closing this investment gap won’t just result in higher grades, but it will also create tangible economic relief for American families. If Congress maintains recent funding levels, the average household could save $700 annually by avoiding the hidden costs of failing infrastructure, such as delays, emergency repairs, and increased utility and transportation expenses.

Meanwhile, climate-related threats continue to intensify. Infrastructure systems, particularly aging roads, levees, dams, and water networks, face mounting risks from flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, and extreme temperatures. Investing in resilience now means fewer rebuilds later, and more reliable infrastructure to support economic growth and public safety.

Building Resilient Infrastructure with Geosynthetics

The future success of many infrastructure projects depends on the strength of the underlying soil. Through an interconnected honeycomb-like network, 3D geocells confine and stabilize soils that would otherwise be unstable under loading. The GEOWEB® 3D Soil Stabilization System is the industry’s first and most complete geocell system, designed with fully engineered components to withstand the most challenging site conditions. These accessories are engineered for strength, fast installs, and reliable long-term performance.

Whether used for load support, channel protection, slope stabilization, stormwater management, or retaining wall systems, the GEOWEB system enables cost-effective, low-maintenance infrastructure that stands up to environmental stresses. Its flexible design and engineered accessories ensure fast installation and long-term performance, even under challenging conditions.

At Presto Geosystems, we support engineers and project owners with free project evaluation assistance and technical guidance from project start through construction.

• Request a Free Project Evaluation
• Create a 3-Part CSI Spec in Minutes
• Get a Quote from a Local Distributor

Learn more about how the GEOWEB geocells can be used to improve resilience in the lowest-graded categories.

Download the full 2025 Infrastructure Report Card >>

Innovative Site Solutions for Civil Engineering and Construction Projects

When faced with challenging site conditions—whether it’s weak soils, steep slopes, or erosion-prone channels—finding an efficient, long-term solution that minimizes maintenance is essential. Geocells offer just that. These innovative cellular confinement systems (CCS) are a proven solution for load support, retaining walls, slope stabilization, and channel protection applications. Geocells not only improve soil stability but also contribute to eco-friendly, sustainable project designs.

Geocells are three-dimensional, honeycomb-like structures typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). By confining and reinforcing infill materials like soil/vegetation, sand, gravel or concrete, geocells create a stable, load-bearing surface. This cellular system prevents soil movement and erosion, making geocells a versatile solution for stabilizing weak soils and supporting structures such as roads, retaining walls, slopes, and channels.

How Geocells Work

The core function of geocells is to create a grid of interconnected cells that confine and stabilize infill materials. This CCS strengthens the underlying soil and distributes loads more evenly, preventing the movement of infill under pressure. In load support applications—such as roads, parking areas, or driveways—geocells act like a semi-rigid slab.

The geocell structure increases the load distribution angle and spreads vertical stresses over a larger area, which is commonly referred to as the mattress effect. This feature helps stabilize weak subgrades and prevents surface deformation, such as rutting or differential settlement, under heavy loads.

Key Benefits of Geocells

• Soil Stabilization for Weak Subgrades: Geocells are designed to stabilize soils that would otherwise shift or settle under loading. By confining infill materials, geocells create a firm, stable base that can support the demands of roadways, heavy-duty parking lots, or other infrastructure projects. The mattress effect further enhances this stabilization, ensuring that vertical stresses are distributed across a wider area, reducing the likelihood of differential settlement or deformation over time.

• Erosion Control for Slopes and Channels: On slopes and in channels prone to erosion, geocells help prevent soil from washing away during rainstorms or high-flow events. The cellular structure holds soil in place, creating long-term stability and reducing maintenance needs.
• Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: By allowing the use of locally sourced infill, geocells reduce the need for imported materials and minimize the environmental footprint of a project. Their permeable design also promotes natural water infiltration, helping manage stormwater and reduce runoff.
• Cost-Effective with Minimal Maintenance: Geocells are a cost-effective solution for stabilizing weak soils and preventing erosion. Their simple installation process and long-lasting performance mean reduced material costs upfront and less maintenance over time.

Common Applications for Geocells

• Load Support: Geocells stabilize unpaved roads, parking areas, and other surfaces by evenly distributing loads, which prevents differential settlement and rutting.
• Slope Stabilization: On steep embankments, geocells hold soil in place, reducing erosion while allowing vegetation to take root for natural reinforcement.
• Retaining Walls: Geocells offer a flexible alternative to rigid retaining walls, adapting to natural shifts in the landscape and soft sub grade soils while maintaining soil retention.
• Channel Protection: Geocells reinforce the bed and banks of stormwater channels, reducing erosion and ensuring long-term stability, even in high-flow conditions.

Introducing GEOWEB® Geocells: The Original Cellular Confinement System

While geocells are becoming widely used today, GEOWEB Geocells stand out as the original and most advanced system on the market. Presto Geosystems, in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, pioneered the development of geocells in the late 1970s to address the need for reliable soil stabilization solutions in military and civil applications. This collaboration resulted in the invention of the GEOWEB system, which continues to lead the industry in performance and innovation over the past 40 years.

GEOWEB Geocells are made from high-quality, virgin HDPE, which offers superior strength, flexibility, and long-lasting durability compared to other systems. This ensures that the GEOWEB Geocells can withstand harsh elements and challenging conditions, whether it’s in load-bearing applications or erosion control projects.

The GEOWEB system is a complete geocell system, including ATRA® Accessories such as ATRA Connection Keys, ATRA Anchors, ATRA Tendon Clip, and the ATRA Driver. These components are designed to enhance installation efficiency and long-term performance, providing fast, secure connections that ensure the structural integrity of the entire system.

Comprehensive Construction Services, Engineering Support, and Free Project Evaluations

At Presto Geosystems, our commitment goes beyond providing high-quality products. We offer on-site field assistance, engineering support, and free project evaluations. Our team works with you at every stage, from initial project evaluation assistance to on-site installation support, helping you achieve the best results for your specific project challenges.