3 Facts About Erosion Control

Erosion refers to the natural yet harmful effects that wind and water have on the soil over time. Erosion can be aggravated by human intervention and must be controlled in order to prevent permanent destruction to the land.

Vegetation

One of the most effective techniques to control both wind and water erosion is by planting or preserving the vegetative cover over the soil. Plants, grass or flowers form a protective barrier over the soil, and reduce erosion.

Mulch

Another technique to control erosion is by spraying mulch onto the area. Mulch is composed of straw, fiber or wood chips, and helps the soil handle the effect of rain by slowing its absorption.

Matting

Mats made of synthetic or organic material are used to cover the soil exposed to the threat of erosion. These mats are called various names, including Rolled Erosion Control Products (RECPs), Turf Reinforcement Mats (TRM) or Erosion Control Blankets (ECB).

Severe Slopes

One of the many challenges of controlling erosion is when an area with a severe slope is threatened. Matting is especially useful here due to its durable nature.

Impact of Erosion

Soil erosion can reduce the crop yield on arable land by reducing the amount of nutrients in the soil. After the soil is transported to another location as a result of erosion, the sediment can affect water quality.

References

• Vegation Erosion Control
• Mulch Erosion Control