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During earthen embankment construction, the fill material should be placed in continuous layers, with a maximum thickness of 8 inches. This method is essential because it facilitates effective compaction of the soil material. Compaction is critical in preventing settlement and ensuring stability of the embankment. Placing material in layers allows for the proper application of compaction techniques, ensuring that each layer achieves the desired density before the next layer is added.

This layered approach helps to minimize voids and provides a more uniform structure, which is crucial for the integrity of the embankment. The 8-inch maximum thickness is a widely accepted guideline that balances practicality and effectiveness in achieving proper compaction throughout the fill.

In contrast, employing too thick layers would hinder the ability to achieve proper compaction, while random patterns or vertical columns would not provide the necessary structural support and could lead to problems such as uneven settling or instability in the embankment. Therefore, the specified method of placing fill in continuous, controlled layers is the most effective practice for ensuring the long-term stability and performance of earthen embankments.