Enter the horizontal distance and vertical drop into the calculator to determine the slope of a ditch. The slope is presented as a percentage.

Ditch Slope Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the slope of a ditch:

S = (VD / HD) * 100

Variables:

  • S is the slope (%)
  • VD is the vertical drop (feet)
  • HD is the horizontal distance (feet)

To calculate the slope of a ditch, divide the vertical drop by the horizontal distance and then multiply by 100 to convert it to a percentage.

What is Ditch Slope?

Ditch slope is a measure of the steepness or incline of a ditch or channel. It is typically expressed as a percentage, representing the vertical drop per unit of horizontal distance. Proper slope is crucial for drainage ditches as it ensures adequate water flow and prevents erosion or sediment build-up.

How to Calculate Ditch Slope?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Ditch Slope.


  1. First, measure the horizontal distance (HD) of the ditch in feet.
  2. Next, measure the vertical drop (VD) of the ditch in feet.
  3. Use the formula S = (VD / HD) * 100 to calculate the slope (S).
  4. Finally, calculate the Ditch Slope (S) as a percentage.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

Horizontal distance (HD) = 100 feet

Vertical drop (VD) = 10 feet