Erosion Control

Erosion control refers to the prevention of soil movement by wind, rain or flowing water. It assists in the conservation of land, avoids harm and maintains a healthy environment. Soil may be washed out without erosion control to the detriment of plants, water supplies and buildings.

Why Erosion Control is important

Erosion of soil may cause significant problems. It may destroy property, contaminate water and destroy crops. Adopting good erosion control practices mitigates these risks. In the long term, it also saves costs by avoiding expensive repairs and land loss.

Some Erosion Control Techniques

Erosion can be controlled in a variety of ways. The appropriate technique is subject to land, weather and use of the area. The popular methods of soil erosion control are:

Sowing grass or shrubs: Roots bind the ground and prevent water runoff.

Mulching –Bare soil is covered with mulch to prevent rain and wind.

Terracing steps constructed on slopes retard the flow of water and prevent soil erosion. Such approaches are not complex, cheap, and can be applied in most environments.

Erosion Control Methods on Slopes and Water Bodies

There are still places which require more protection. Premature erosion control methods can be employed in the following situations:

Silt fences are used during construction to trap soil, preventing it from flowing into drains or streams.

Riprap –big rocks used on the banks of rivers or on the shores to prevent erosion.