Gravel Roads: When the Dust Settles - Chicopee

Date: 8/26/2025 7:30 AM - 8/26/2025 3:00 PM

Location: UMass Transportation Center Aviation Research & Training Facility
27 Lonzack St

Chicopee, Massachusetts

Capacity:

0/35



Overview

image of gravel road

Description

This class is based on the South Dakota manual on gravel road maintenance.  Students will learn about the many techniques for gravel road maintenance and how to effectively apply them in any community, large or small. These techniques can save thousands of dollars in maintenance costs and reduce the time spent grading gravel roads. 

Who Should Attend

Anyone involved in gravel road maintenance. From the DPW director to the street level employee. 

Agenda

  • Understanding gravel, crushed vs screened
  • Understanding gravel roads, what’s different than asphalt
  • Break
  • Crown and slope, parabolic or tangential
  • Proper blade techniques, attack angles and blade pitch
  • Lunch 
  • Grader operation, articulation, wheel lean and duck walking
  • Dust control liquids
  • Drainage, secondary ditches, and sub-base

Accommodations for Disabilities: UMTC endeavors to provide an inclusive learning environment for all. If you require special services or arrangements to fully participate in this workshop, please email Mike Smith, 413-834-3975 at least 14 days prior to the event. Such services are provided free of charge.

Registration
Amount

$200.00
Register by 8/26/2025
Private Attendee

Register

$100.00
Register by 8/26/2025
Public Attendee

Register

IMPORTANT UPDATE: New profiles will need to be reviewed and approved before you can register for a workshop or event. Please allow one business day for processing.

If you are having trouble registering, please email admin@umasstransportationcenter.org or call (413) 545-2604 for assistance.

Please be advised, cancellations must be received no later than 7 days prior to the event, or the registration fee will not be refunded.

 
Instructors
  • Michael Smith
    Technical Training Specialist at UMass Transportation Center (UMTC)