Controlling erosion is one of the most effective ways to maintain the health of regional ecosystems and the plants and animals that live within them. However, several human industries like agriculture, construction, and more can cause a loss of natural vegetation and increase erosion.
Fortunately, erosion control can mitigate that damage and lead to numerous environmental benefits. Here’s an inside look at the vitality of keeping the ground grounded.
The importance of wildlife-friendly erosion control products
Nearly all erosion control products will have a positive effect on surrounding wildlife. That said, not all erosion control methods are kind to our furry friends. That’s why it’s vital to choose erosion control methods that minimize debris and consist of environmentally friendly materials.
In this regard, erosion control blankets are one of the best options for keeping exposed soil in place without harming nearby animals. Through the use of stakes, these blankets cover the ground while maintaining a low profile that is not likely to interfere with the movement of vulnerable wildlife species.
Preservation of local wildlife and ecosystems
Without erosion control, the soil will wash away quickly during a significant rain event. While that occurrence is likely to cause a mess, the damage does not end there.
Once the soil has eroded, there will be few opportunities for new vegetation to take root in a nutrient-rich growing medium. In turn, the animals that rely on those plants for food and shelter will not have what they need to survive. When erosion control is in place, there is much less potential for that harmful outcome to take place.
Slowing the flow of surface runoff
When plants cover the landscape, their role doesn’t stop at producing oxygen. Among a plant’s benefits is its ability to intercept and slow stormwater as it falls to the ground. Once that vanguard vegetation is gone, there will be no buffer between raindrops and the soil in the absence of erosion control.
When left unmitigated, stormwater runoff can accumulate and carry soil as it rushes over the ground. One of the main benefits of erosion control is that it will play the role that vegetation once did by slowing stormwater runoff.
Better soil structure and nutrient content
This final benefit of erosion control is relevant to nearly any construction project and is especially critical to agriculture. As alluded to in the previous points, erosion control effectively keeps soil in place when vegetation can no longer do so.
By keeping the soil in place, erosion control helps protect the structure and nutrient quality of the earth. The benefits here are that safeguarding the ground allows it to support new construction projects without sinking. It also ensures that the soil will have enough nutrients to keep crops or any other plants that will later take root.
Parting thoughts
Erosion control is vital to any project that alters the landscape. Without this beneficial practice, development projects would wreak untold havoc on the surrounding environment. Thankfully, with the right kind of erosion control, that environmental damage is dust in the wind.
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