The Importance of Erosion Control in Seeding Projects

Seedbed preparation can significantly destabilize soil, leaving it vulnerable to erosion by surface runoffs and, in some cases, wind and stormwater. Without proper erosion control, the germination percentage of seeds will reduce over time.

To know how serious a problem erosion is, we will discuss the importance of erosion in seeding projects along with the principles behind erosion control practices for your seeding project.

Why You Should Control Erosion During a Seeding Project

Erosion, if left unchecked, can lead to a wide range of challenges, including seed project failure. These challenges underline the importance of erosion control in any setting, including in a seeding project. The following are the reasons why controlling erosion is important.

Reduction in overhead cost

Unchecked erosion increases the project overhead cost. Every project has well-defined timelines and costs. With erosion, you will need extra funds to purchase control materials and pay personnel. You will also need additional time to accomplish tasks. All these added workload and time translate into extra-budgetary allocation for your seeding project.

It’s recommended that proper soil studies are carried out before establishing a seedbed to determine the likelihood of erosion in such areas. If erosion is anticipated, the project manager should indicate that in the budget and provide a flexible project timeline to accommodate the extra work.

Preservation of soil fertility and integrity

Stormwaters, winds, or surface runoffs wash away fertile topsoil in the seedbed. In most cases, the topsoil is usually destabilized during seedbed preparation. If not properly stabilized, the nutrient-rich soil can easily be swept away by agents of erosion, including wind and water. The germinating seeds will lose nutrients that they need for their growth.

Without adequate nutrients, the germination rate of your seeds will reduce significantly. Cases of delayed germination may also arise. The lack of adequate nutrients in the seedbed due to erosion will force you to use additional fertilizers or biotic soils, which costs more money in the long run.

Improved germination

Surface runoffs or stormwater can easily wash away seeds already planted in the seedbed. Moreover, seeds generally germinate with the right humidity and soil aeration. Unchecked erosion can lead to flooding of your seedbed leading to damp conditions that are unsuitable for seed germination.

With the right erosion control products such as mulch, wattles, and blankets, you can ensure that the soil in and around the seedbed is well aerated for improved germination. You can stabilize the soil, control sedimentation in the seeding project location, and limit soil exposure to agents of erosion.

Principles for Erosion Control Practices

Mulch

One of the most common erosion control practices is mulching. Mulch ensures that there is little disturbance to the soil, especially when it rains. When used effectively, mulch limits soil exposure to agents of erosion such as wind and water.

Additionally, mulch increases the resistance of soil against erosive forces. By protecting the soil, mulch disrupts and weakens the erosive energy of surface runoffs, wind, and rain.

Erosion Control Blankets & Wattles

Erosion control blankets and wattles use similar principles to that of mulching. These products cover the surface of the soil, thereby limiting the exposure to agents of erosion. They also act as resistance barriers that reduce the intensity of the power of erosive forces.

The soil will become more resistant to these forces, leaving your seedbed and seedlings safe. However, unlike mulch, blankets and wattles are biodegradable and can stabilize the soil. Bioengineering using foliage also applies the same principles used in mulching, wattles, and blankets.

Topography Modification

Other erosion control practices such as vegetated waterways, contouring, and terracing use the principle of topography modification. This principle of erosion control aims at controlling sedimentation and reducing the power of erosive forces.

Contours and terraces reduce the velocity of surface runoffs and erosive capacity of storm waters. Whether you are using terraces, contours, or vegetated waterways, you’ll get better soil moisture and topsoil retention.

Factors to Consider when Selecting Erosion Control Practices

• Effectiveness: Ensure that the chosen practice can effectively reduce erosion in your seedbed.

• Legality: Different states and jurisdictions have guidelines on which methods of erosion control are permissible. Consult with local agencies before choosing one.

• Suitability: Each project site has unique qualities, including slope and soil type, which determine the choice or erosion control practice.

• Budget: Your budget is the blueprint for all project-related expenditures and issues.

Always Question What’s Best for Your Unique Project

Before settling on an erosion control practice, always seek to understand the topography and erosion control suitability of your location before landing on an erosion control practice that may not be allowed or unsuitable for your area.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes.