Wear and tear on Potts Road, Taradale and Woodbrook Road, Walmer, will be monitored over the next 18 months in an effort to identify the best treatment for long-lasting improvements.

Mount Alexander Shire director of infrastructure and development Phil Josipovic said both roads had a history of requiring regular maintenance.

"We wanted two distinct areas so we could compare the results," he said.

"The aim of this trial is to work out the most efficient way to achieve long-lasting improvements."

The trial includes the use of binding emulsions, dust suppression agents and clay additives.

"We've used specialised road stabilising equipment and made changes to the way we screen, mix and compact the road material," Mr Josipovic said.

The shire has 880 kilometres of unsealed roads.

Mr Josipovic said maintaining and upgrading the unsealed roads was a constant challenge.

"Most of our unsealed roads were built decades ago and the road construction process has changed considerably over this time," he said.

"Reconstructing gravel roads is very costly and we're grateful for the $497,000 grant we received for the trial through the Fixing Country Roads program of Regional Roads Victoria.

"The team will continue to work on the regular road grading and reseal programs while we undertake the trial."

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