Erosion can be a significant challenge to the health of a property and its downstream waterways. Erosion is often connected to surface and subsurface water. Permaculture Artisans has years of experience with erosion control solutions in a variety of settings. Water-harvesting strategies are a foundation for reducing the movement of sediment across a site or through a waterway.
In addition to a water-harvesting plan, depending on the challenge at hand, Permaculture Artisans will design a unique erosion control plan that may include one or more of the following:
This uses specially chosen trees, plants, and seeds integrated with mulching systems and beneficial bacteria or fungal inoculations that hold the soil in place.
These can be used for road cuts, landslides, terraces, excavated sites, and steep eroding banks. They also serve the dual function of moderating microclimates where they are placed, increasing heat absorption and frost protection.
Onsite or locally-harvested brush or logs can be used as an effective erosion control strategy if placed on contour lines, packed in gullies or used as check dams in drainage systems. Brush piles also serve the functions of providing habitat for wildlife and as carbon sponges that absorb water and slowly release nutrients into the landscape.
A gabion is a structure placed in a waterway or drainage channel to slow water down while allowing it to flow through. As water slows, sediment drops out behind the gabion keeping it from moving downstream. These are usually made from rock placed in a wire cage but brush versions with stakes can be used as well.