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Why is drainage placed behind many retaining walls?

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  1. To keep the soil moist so it holds
  2. To make the wall itself lighter
  3. To reduce water pressure behind the wall

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References

  1. FHWA LRFD Abutment and Wingwall Design Example www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/lrfd/us_ds7.cfm Checked 2026-10-10.

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