Surface Erosion Explained |
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Rainsplash Raindrop impact dislodges particles and launches them into the air, these in turn can repeat the jumping process on landing.
Run-Off Overland flow detaches particles and transports the sediment in suspension along the surface
Wind Scour Winds lift particles into the air, while catapulting and rolling medium and coarse grains along the surface
Vulnerable Locations
Unprotected, bare slopes are vulnerable to surface erosion by rain, runoff and wind. The risk is highest on over steepened slopes; sites with exposed highly erodible sub-soil; and where the ground has been disturbed or badly compacted.
On-Site Consequences
Soil erosion results in poor growing conditions for vegetation due to the disturbances, washout of nutrients and organic matter (making the soil infertile) and loss of seeds and seedlings. As a result additional costs can be incurred for remedial works and re-seeding of the damaged areas.
The eroded sediment blocks drainage ditches, reducing their capacity to cope with storm events, causing flooding and increased maintenance.
Off-Site Consequences
More serious however is the environmental impact on water quality, because, once eroded from the site, sediments act as a pollutant, contaminating streams, rivers and lakes. Sediments carry high levels of nutrients that lead to excessive plant growth and result in oxygen starvation for aquatic life. While runoff from industrial sites (such as mines) may contain toxic elements.
Prevention is Better than Cure
It is therefore far better to take precautions to prevent damage occurring initially by using erosion control measures.
Bioengineers have proven that, a permanent, self propagating, vegetation cover is the answer to most erosion problems.
Therefore using natural fabrics that imitate the properties of plants, whilst encouraging regeneration, should always be a priority. Furthermore, such methods are environmentally desirable and visually pleasing, besides being cost effective and self sustaining.
Hy-Tex (UK) Limited, PO Box 97
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Hy-Tex (UK) Limited |
Tel: +44 (0)1233 720097 |
Fax: +44 (0)1233 720098 |
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