Placing Boulders and Layered Backfill

What happens here

Use an excavator equipped with a grappler attachment to carefully place the largest boulders, often referred to as 'big dogs,' along the bottom of the prepared trench. Ensure these base stones are deeply embedded into the compacted soil, a technique known as 'toeing in,' to provide maximum stability. Arrange them tightly together, minimizing gaps. Once the first layer is in place, begin backfilling behind the stones with soil, covering the geotextile fabric. Compact the backfilled soil thoroughly using the vibratory tamper. Repeat this process for subsequent layers: place boulders, ensuring each new layer is stepped back from the one below (creating a pyramid-like slope), backfill with soil, and compact repeatedly. Continue laying geotextile fabric between layers as needed for additional reinforcement. The general principle is 'big, medium, small' as you work your way up the wall.

Goal: Build the retaining wall by layering boulders, geotextile, and compacted backfill.