Although you might think that soil is resilient and does not change over time, it is quite fragile and prone to erosion. When this happens, wind, water, and other factors wear away the top layer, which can get into the water. As a result, there can be flooding and other negative impacts like poor crop yields. And with fewer plants, less carbon dioxide can be absorbed – this contributes to climate change.
Erosion control falls under the category of regenerative agriculture. There are different ways of doing it, but the main goals are to use a network that feeds on itself rather than a linear supply chain that gives nothing back. Farmers can stave off erosion by planting two kinds of crops together in fields and using hillsides for terraced farming. States also have rules that farmers and contractors follow, like the North Carolina Sedimentation Control Law. A comprehensive erosion control plan will include important information, including:
- A detailed site location and drawing that includes erosion control practices
- An erosion control construction schedule
- Descriptions of vegetation that may be planted or moved
- Financial details
Much of the plans will focus on controlling and diverting water or wind to reduce the effects of erosion. One method is to cover up the ground, either with natural plant cover or plastic sheeting. Traditional dams made from earth or sandbags are also helpful for erosion control, as are modern inflatable dams. Other proven methods include using mobile grinders to create mulch and surveying adjacent sites to ensure they are not negatively impacted.
Erosion control can be a complicated process, and at Snead’s Outdoor Services, our experienced team can answer any questions you may have about your project.