There are many different types of erosion control solutions, but what are they and how do they work? To help you better understand erosion control as a whole, let’s discuss how shoreline erosion occurs, what the consequences are, and what the different types of erosion control solutions are.
Common Causes of Shoreline Erosion
There are a number of factors that can contribute to shoreline erosion. Let’s break down a few of the most common causes of erosion.
Waves
In addition to wind, waves can also cause erosion. As waves crash against the shore, they erode the land by carrying away bits of soil and rock. Wave action is one of the most powerful forces on earth and it is constantly changing the shape of our coastlines.
Rain
Another cause of erosion is rain. When it rains, the water runs off of hard surfaces like roofs and roads. It carries with it bits of sand, dirt, and other particles which can wear away at soft surfaces like soil. If there is too much runoff, it can create gullies or washouts which can lead to serious problems.
People
Yes, that’s right—humans are one of the leading causes of erosion! When we build things like roads, houses, and dams, we change the way water flows. This can cause water to move in ways it never has before, which can lead to erosion. Additionally, when we walk or drive on soft soils near ponds or shorelines, we compact the ground and make it more susceptible to erosion.
Consequences of Shoreline Erosion
Shoreline erosion can have serious consequences.
As an example, areas experiencing shoreline erosion can become more susceptible to continued erosion or ‘sluffing’. On top of this, the eroded material can seep into the pond or lake. And as a result, the waterbody won’t be able to hold as much water as before the erosion and sedimentation. This may result in flooding.
Shoreline erosion can also damage buildings and other infrastructure located near the shore. As waves wash away sediment and rocks from the shore, they can negatively impact buildings and other structures in their path.
Finally, shoreline erosion can also impact the environment by altering habitats and disrupting ecosystems. When waves wash away sediment and rocks from the shore, they can also remove plants and animals that live there. This can alter habitats and disrupt ecosystems that depend on those plants and animals for survival.
Types of Erosion Control Solutions
Living Shoreline
One effective way to control erosion is by using geo mesh fabric. Sometimes called a “living shoreline,” this type of fabric is made of synthetic materials that are designed to mimic the natural vegetation found along riverbanks and coastlines (while firmly holding the sediment in place to prevent future erosion).
By creating a physical barrier between the water and the land, geo mesh fabric can help to reduce the amount of sediment and other pollutants that flow into our waterways. Additionally, geo mesh fabric can also provide a foothold for new plants to take root, which helps to further stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
There are many reasons why you might want to consider using geo mesh fabric as your erosion control solution. Here are just a few of the benefits:
- Geo mesh fabric is durable. Unlike natural vegetation, which can be easily uprooted by strong currents or high winds, geo mesh fabric is designed to withstand even the most extreme conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for areas that are prone to severe weather events.
- Geo mesh fabric is versatile. It can be used in a variety of settings, including along riverbanks, in wetlands, and even on slopes. Additionally, geo mesh fabric comes in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can choose the option that best fits your needs.
- Geo mesh fabric is affordable. When compared to other types of erosion control methods, such as concrete walls or riprap, geo mesh fabric is relatively inexpensive. This makes it a great option for those who are working with limited budgets.
Gabion Baskets
Gabion baskets are made from wire mesh that is interwoven to form a cage. The wire mesh is then filled with rocks or gravel and placed in the desired location. The rocks or gravel added to the gabions act as ballast, which increases their stability and helps to prevent them from being swept away by high winds or flowing water.
Gabion baskets are an effective solution for controlling erosion because they can be quickly and easily installed. Additionally, gabion baskets are strong and durable, and they allow water to pass through them while still trapping sediment. This makes them an ideal choice for use in high erosion areas.
That being said, gabion baskets are not a long-term solution. This is because over time, the rocks or debris in the baskets will become loose and will no longer be effective at stopping the soil from eroding. Additionally, the baskets will eventually rust and will need to be replaced.
Interested in learning more about erosion control solutions? We’d love to hear from you! At PondMedics, we help people all across the country effectively control erosion on their shorelines. Give us a call or fill out our online contact form to start a conversation.