Erosion Control FAQ

July 11, 2024

Erosion control is an important aspect of construction and land development, as it helps prevent soil erosion and sedimentation, which can cause damage to property, waterways, and the environment. It is important to have a proper plan in place to address erosion control and to consult with experts to select the most appropriate method

What is erosion control?

Erosion control is the practice of preventing or reducing the amount of soil erosion caused by water, wind, or other natural forces. This is typically done through the use of physical, chemical, and biological methods, such as terracing, retaining walls, vegetation, and erosion control matting.

Why is erosion control important?

Erosion control is important because it helps prevent soil erosion and sedimentation, which can cause damage to property, waterways, and the environment. Erosion can also lead to increased sedimentation in streams and rivers, which can negatively impact fish and wildlife habitat and water quality.

What are the different types of erosion control methods?

There are several types of erosion control methods, including: physical methods (such as terracing, retaining walls, and gabions), chemical methods (such as erosion control matting and hydromulching), and biological methods (such as vegetation and grass seeding).

How do I choose the right erosion control method for my site?

The appropriate erosion control method will depend on the specific conditions of the site, such as soil type, slope, and vegetation. It is recommended to consult with experts, such as engineers or landscape architects, to determine the most appropriate method. At Absolute, we can help you with full SWPPP preparation, including obtaining an NPDES permit.

How do I maintain erosion control measures?

Maintenance of erosion control measures will vary depending on the type of method used, but generally, it includes routine inspections, repair of any damaged areas, and replacement of any vegetative cover that may have died. Absolute Group offers full site inspections and site maintenance.

How do I know if my erosion control measures are working properly?

There are several ways to determine if erosion control measures are working:

Monitoring: Regularly monitoring the site for signs of erosion, such as exposed soil, rutting, or sedimentation, can help determine if the measures are effective.
Inspecting: Inspecting the erosion control measures, such as vegetation, erosion control matting, or retaining walls, to ensure that they are in good condition and functioning as intended.
Measuring: Measuring the rate of erosion before and after the measures were implemented, can help determine if there has been a reduction in erosion.
Testing: Testing the water quality downstream from the site can help determine if sedimentation is being controlled.
Surveying: Conducting surveys to measure the vegetation cover and density, can help determine if the vegetation is providing the expected level of protection.
Consulting with experts: Consulting with experts such as engineers, landscape architects, or erosion control contractors such as Absolute Group, who can provide professional evaluations, to determine if the erosion control measures are working.

It is important to remember that erosion control is an ongoing process and that regular monitoring and maintenance are necessary to ensure that the measures continue to be effective.

Are there any regulations or guidelines for erosion control?

Yes, there are regulations and guidelines for erosion control that vary by location.

In the United States, erosion control is regulated at the federal, state, and local levels. The primary federal legislation related to erosion control is the Clean Water Act, which regulates the discharge of sediment-laden stormwater from construction sites.

Each state has its own set of regulations, and some cities and counties also have their own regulations. These regulations typically set standards for erosion control measures, such as sediment and erosion control plans, and inspection and maintenance requirements.

Additionally, the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provide guidance for erosion control measures, as well as best management practices for erosion control in construction and development projects.

It is important to consult with the local authorities to understand the regulations and guidelines that apply to a specific project, and to ensure that the erosion control measures are in compliance with these regulations.

Any specific to Iowa?

Yes, three are regulations and guidelines specific to erosion control in Iowa.

In Iowa, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is responsible for enforcing erosion control regulations for construction sites. The IDNR has developed regulations for construction sites that require the use of erosion control measures, such as sediment and erosion control plans, and inspections and maintenance requirements.

The IDNR also has the authority to issue "stop work" orders for construction sites that are not in compliance with erosion control regulations.

There are also guidelines for erosion control in Iowa produced by the Iowa Stormwater Management Manual, which is a set of best management practices for erosion control in construction and development projects. The manual provides information on erosion control measures such as sediment and erosion control plans, sediment basins, silt fences, and erosion control blankets.

It is important use a contractor like Absolute Group that can consult with the local authorities and the IDNR to understand the regulations and guidelines that apply to a specific project, and to ensure that the erosion control measures are in compliance with these regulations.

How can I prevent soil erosion on my property or project?

There are several ways to prevent soil erosion on your property or project:

Vegetation: Planting vegetation, such as grass, shrubs, or trees, can help stabilize the soil and reduce erosion.
Mulch: Applying mulch to gardens and landscaped areas can help retain moisture in the soil and reduce erosion.
Retaining walls: Building retaining walls can help control erosion on sloped areas and can also add visual interest to your property.
Terracing: Creating terraces on sloped areas can help slow the flow of water and reduce erosion.
Erosion control matting: Using erosion control matting can help stabilize slopes and reduce erosion.
Drainage: Improving the drainage on your property or project can help prevent water from pooling and eroding the soil.
Water diversion: Diverting water away from vulnerable areas of your property can help reduce erosion.
Rain gardens: Building rain gardens can help redirect water from your property or project and reduce erosion.
Erosion control blanket: Using erosion control blanket helps to protect soil from erosion and retain moisture.
Consult with experts: Consulting with experts such as engineers, landscape architects, or erosion control contractors like Absolute Group can help to determine the most appropriate erosion control measures for your property.

It is important to note that the best solution will depend on the specific conditions of the site, it is recommended to consult with experts to determine the most appropriate method.

What are the best plants for erosion control?

There are several types of plants that are well-suited for erosion control due to their deep root systems, ability to hold soil in place, and ability to thrive in difficult growing conditions. Some of the best plants for erosion control include:

Grasses: Grass species such as fescue, bluegrass, and buffalo grass have deep root systems that help to hold soil in place and prevent erosion.
Shrubs: Shrubs such as willow, dogwood, and elderberry have deep roots and are effective at preventing erosion on slopes and in wetland areas.
Trees: Trees such as pine, oak, and redwood have deep roots that help to hold soil in place and prevent erosion.
Groundcovers: Groundcovers such as creeping thyme, ivy, and periwinkle are effective at preventing erosion on slopes and in difficult growing conditions.
Wildflowers: Wildflowers such as lupine, wild indigo, and prairie clover are effective at preventing erosion on slopes and in difficult growing conditions.
Sedges and rushes: Sedges and rushes such as Carex and Juncus are great at erosion control in wetland areas, they can help to stabilize soil and reduce erosion.
Perennials: Perennials such as yarrow, black-eyed Susan, and butterfly weed are good at erosion control in gardens and landscaped areas.

It's important to note that the best plant for erosion control will depend on the specific conditions of the site such as soil type, slope, and vegetation. It is recommended to consult with experts, such as landscape architects, horticulturists, or erosion control contractors such as Absolute Group to determine the most appropriate plant species for your site.