Cheapest berm retainer?

[adamsredlines]

I got my dirt pile, I'd kinda like to build something to retain it some so it doesn't just slowly wash away in the rain.
What's the best/most economical way to do it?
Railroad ties are $20ea around here. Not terrible but they also seem to be pretty picked over.

Would pressure treated 2x12s built like a raised flowerbed work you think?

I figure build full height on the back and sides and something maybe 3' tall on the front?

I'm all ears here.

 

[dlbleak]

With the cost of lumber coming down, the 2x12’s might be a decent idea. Would you build it kinda like a horizontal fence with posts?

 

[ark-and-spark]

Used pallets and plywood.

 

[cowadle]

scrap yard sheets of low quality tank steel. held in place using pipe driven into the ground. or stack sackcrete bags.

 

[swampratt]

Cut down some cedar trees or other trees and use those

 

[HillsideDesolate]

Plant some clover and quick growing trees on it

 

[swampratt]

Check your local craigslist under the FREE section and you can turn up a lot of things.
They have a materials and barter section also that will turn up things you can use to keep that berm from washing away.

 

[Okie4570]

Have grass seed blown on it, or do it yourself.

 

[Ready_fire_aim]

If you’re building it out of wood, railroad ties will be hard to beat. They’ll last against rot and handle being shot up by the newbies. Although 2x12s would be much easier to work with. In my experience railroad ties are super heavy and difficult to cut. They’ll dull a chainsaw in a hurry

 

[GunnyH]

Tires