Important Ways to Prevent Erosion from Spring Runoff

Soil Erosion From Spring Runoff Endangers The Environment and Damages Property

Erosion is a natural process, but when landscaping and construction change the natural dynamics of the land, it is much easier for soil and sediment to runoff and contaminate local waterways. Extra moisture and rain during the spring months can only make this issue worse. Erosion prevention is important to protecting properties, and many local authorities require landowners to take steps to stop soil erosion, but erosion control is something that should be done anyway to maintain property values and protect the surrounding landscape. This blog will discuss how erosion happens, what the major danger is, and common ways to prevent erosion that construction companies or landscapers can use to protect their properties from damage during the winter months.

Factors That Contribute to Soil Erosion

The action of rain, wind, melted snow, and ice all work against the soil surfaces on your property. The repeated action of these forces can loosen soil for it to be carried away by gravity and running water. Any soil on any property is vulnerable to erosion, but there are important factors that make some areas more susceptible than others.

Soil characteristics – The quality of soil depends on the materials found in it and its texture. Sandy soils contain larger particles that do not stick together well, which makes soil with a large amount of sand easily washed away. Clay soils consist of very fine, packed together particles that resist water. While clay doesn’t erode, it does allow water to pool on top of it, which drowns vegetation. Organic matter is vital for healthy soil structure as it promotes vegetation growth and allows water to pass through without being washed away.

Topography – Natural and artificial features influence where erosion takes place. Shallow slopes erode slower than steep slopes and allow erosion controlling vegetation to take root. Surrounding topography represents a significant threat to nearby structures if the land erodes and becomes unstable.

Vegetation – Plants and biodiversity is a natural way to protect soil from erosion. Plant roots hold particles in place, and the plants themselves create a protective shield against rain, wind, and snow. Plants can not only prevent erosion, but also they beautify the landscape and improve bare earth.

How to Stop Erosion

While erosion is a natural process, no matter how flat the property is, there will always be water runoff that needs to be managed. Erosion problems can be mitigated by protecting exposed soil and providing a safe way for water to follow as it passes over and leaves a property. At Varsity, we use proven soil stabilization methods to proactively establish control over runoff and execute a complete plan that protects your property.

Erosion Control Matting

Large, sloping areas that have been cleared of vegetation are easily and quickly damaged by wind and water erosion. Erosion control matting involves the use of organic, biodegradable materials to cover these large areas. When selected and applied correctly, they are the most effective method to control runoff on disturbed land, especially land that is sloped and is being left undeveloped for months or years at a time.

Vegetation

Native plants are effective means to prevent erosion, but when work is being done on a site, it may not be possible to preserve all the native vegetation. One of the most effective means to control erosion over a large area is to stabilize the soil through seed installation and hydroseeding to promote a carpet of vegetation and root growth. This preserves the topsoil and makes sure what nutrients are already there are preserved for a more permanent solution later.

Super Silt Fences

A super silt fence consists of a fabric barricade suspended by wooden stakes and supported by a combination of backfill and metal fencing. The function of these fences is to stop sediment from leaving the job site through stormwater runoff. Water can seep through the fence while fine soil particles stay in place.

A Clear Plan Is the First Step to Stop Soil Erosion

At Varsity, we believe it is important to be proactive in order to fully protect property from erosion damage. We understand how to minimize soil loss, how to stay compliant with environmental and stormwater management regulations, and how to protect the quality of your property’s future value. We approach every erosion control project with an eye to immediate needs and future impact.

Erosion control is important to your construction site, especially during spring runoff. Think ahead, call Varsity Inc., and let’s get a plan together to protect your property.