Erosion Control Methods

Effective erosion control prevents soil loss caused by rain, wind and human activity. Some of the erosion control methods we employ are drainage piping, swales, riprap, matting, blankets and retaining walls.

Riprap Rocks

Riprap (also called rip rap) is a very durable erosion control technique used to protect slope and channel areas from wind and water erosion. Riprap consists of graded rock placed on a slope or bank. The riprap will last indefinitely, if it is properly designed and installed. Riprap can be designed to self-adjust to extreme erosion conditions that cannot be controlled by matting or other methods. Filter materials beneath the riprap rocks also protect against erosion of the soil.

Erosion Control Blankets

Erosion control blankets are biodegradable materials that can be used to protect slopes and sensitive areas of your landscape from erosion. Blankets are made of natural materials such as straw, wood excelsior or coconut. Erosion control blankets can also be made of synthetically woven materials such as polypropylene.

Erosion control blankets are effective for soil stabilization on steep to moderate slopes, new landscaped areas, drainage swales and ditches that are to be planted or seeded. They increase water infiltration into the soil. When used with a seed mix, they protect the mix from being eroded during heavy rainfall or wind. Erosion control blankets also increase the retention of soil moisture, promoting seed germination.

Retaining Walls

Retaining walls provide effective erosion control while adding visual appeal to a landscape. Retaining walls have changed radically within the past two decades. Once made exclusively of large sections of concrete, they are now available in many styles and materials. The retaining wall can be incorporated into the overall landscape design, adding visual appeal while effectively controlling erosion.