GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING

At HMH Engineering, our geotechnical team supports clients with comprehensive investigations and analysis to ensure stable, efficient, and cost-effective designs across a wide variety of project types. With fully equipped labs and certified staff across Idaho and Western Montana, we deliver timely and accurate results backed by decades of regional experience.

OUR GEOTECHNICAL SERVICES
We offer a complete range of geotechnical engineering services, from initial site investigations to construction-phase inspections:

    • Drilled borings, test pits, infiltration testing, and aquifer testing

    • Logging and classification of soils using the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS)

    • Identification of restrictive layers, perched groundwater, and confining strata

    • Laboratory index and strength testing (gradation, Atterberg limits, direct/triaxial shear, consolidation)

    • Determination of design parameters (bearing capacity, earth pressure coefficients, internal friction angle)

    • Volumetric and compaction testing for construction material reuse

    • Design support for shallow and deep foundations, retaining walls, and slopes

    • Pavement subgrade characterization using R-value and CBR testing

    • Flexible pavement design using the 1993 AASHTO method and site-specific traffic data

    • Modeling using Bishop’s Modified Method and other industry-standard software

    • Seepage analysis and piezometer monitoring

    • Recommendations for slope stabilization and landslide mitigation

    • Water mounding analysis for stormwater injection systems

    • Infiltration capacity testing and basin sizing per regional stormwater manuals

    • Recommendations for site-specific dewatering strategies

    • Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)

    • Field sampling, historical research, and regulatory compliance

    • Remediation plans for contaminated sites during construction phases

    • Field density testing using nuclear densometers

    • Aggregate, asphalt, concrete, and soil testing during construction

    • ICC and ITD-certified inspectors for structural and geotechnical materials

OUR APPROACH
We combine local insight with certified lab capabilities and practical field knowledge to deliver actionable recommendations. Our team works closely with design engineers, contractors, and regulatory agencies to provide:

  • Efficient coordination and scheduling using digital tools

  • Site-specific recommendations tailored to real-world constraints

  • Streamlined report delivery with clearly documented findings

EQUIPMENT & CERTIFICATIONS
To ensure accurate and reliable results, HMH maintains:

  • Fully equipped, WAQTC-certified labs and mobile trailers

  • Certified technicians across geotechnical, concrete, asphalt, and aggregate testing

  • ICC and ITD inspection certifications

  • A full suite of specialized testing and sampling equipment

WHO WE SERVE
We provide geotechnical services for:

  • Transportation agencies and municipalities

  • Private developers and commercial contractors

  • Residential and industrial clients

  • Federal, state, and tribal entities