Gravel Road and Shoulder MaintenanceStatus: CompleteReport Date: 12/15/2025 Summary: This project documented and shared best practices for gravel road and shoulder maintenance to help local agencies improve efficiency amid limited budgets and shrinking workforces. Using Nicollet County’s proven approach as a model, the study showed that updated gravel specifications, systematic blading practices, seasonal scheduling, and reclaiming techniques can cut gravel use and operating hours by about 50%, saving more than $150,000 annually, with an additional $85,000 saved through shoulder reclaiming on paved roads. A key outcome of the project is the educational video “Gravel Road and Shoulder Maintenance – Best Practices and Innovations” and its companion flyer, which translates these findings into practical guidance for counties, townships, and maintenance staff. Together, these resources equip agencies with strategies that reduce costs, extend road life, and improve safety across Minnesota’s extensive gravel road network. Final Deliverables: Gravel Road and Shoulder Maintenance – Best Practices and Innovations (Video #2025RIC18V) Gravel Road and Shoulder Maintenance (Other #2025RIC18B) Gravel Road and Shoulder Maintenance (Report #2025RIC18) Related Materials: Related Research: Project Personnel: Principal Investigator: John Brunkhorst Co-Principal Investigator: Rick West, Britt Berner Technical Liaison: Seth Greenwood, Mike Suska Project Coordinator: Jackie Jiran Panel Members: Anthony Pirkl - Lake of the Woods County Bill Schulte - Sibley County Bruce Hasbargen - Beltrami County Eddie Johnson - Materials & Road Research Eric Gutknecht - Public Works Justin Conway - Houston County Paul Nolan - Materials & Road Research Tom Kube - Public Works
