Please Note: We have little or no expertise
with this subject. However we are aware of the important
role that a fast growing plant such as willows can play
in stabilizing and restoring streambanks and slopes and
in preventing erosion. We are therefore providing a number
of links to websites that contain further information.
Recommended willows:
Slope stabilization:
Most willows form large root systems very quickly.
This makes them very useful for erosion control.
Riverbank erosion control:
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Salix purpurea 'Streamco' planted
alongside a stream
Photo courtesy USDA Natural Resource Conservation Services |
Soil bioengineering is a new technology which combines
mechanical, biological, and ecological concepts to prevent
and/or stop shoreline erosion. Willows are interspersed
with rock rip-rap (large rocks or boulders) on the riverbank.
The rock works immediately to prevent erosion. As the willows
become established, their roots spread in the underlying
soil, binding the rocks and soil together. The willows also
provide a more visually interesting shoreline than boulders
alone, as well as improving the habitat for wildlife.
Further information:
In the USA there are many government departments to
visit for further information:
- Dept of Natural Resources - all across the country
- NRCS - USDA offices (grants may be available)
- local State Conservation Districts
- County Extension Services exist within each State, likely
within each county
- Fish & Wildlife offices exist within each State
Note: Please contact one of the above if you
intend to disturb the streambank in any way, as a permit
is most likely required.
There is a great deal of information available on the
internet. Some phrases to search for on search engines:
- soil stabilization
- slope stabilization
- bioengineering
- fascines
- erosion control
- streambank erosion control
- shoreline erosion control
- hedge brush layers
- brush layering
- log cribs walls
- willow logs
- streambank restoration
- riparian restoration
- biostabilization
- faggoting
- coir rolls
- willow spiling
Erosion control in tropical countries
- a remarkable grass for erosion control - Vetiver
Grass. Requires a climate where the soil does not freeze
in winter.
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