Using rolled erosion control products (RECP) helps keep the soil and seeds protected from the elements and other dangers that might remove them from the land. Such products when used properly are relatively inexpensive and quite effective.
However, when used improperly or if not enough are used, then it may lead to issues that require even greater maintenance and cost. Identifying possible issues and finding the right solutions not only means getting the most out of such products, they may save you time, effort, and money in the process of restoring the land.
Problems
The first issues that must be addressed is ensuring that the site is properly prepared. Inadequate preparation means that the products are not implemented in the right way and the land is exposed to the erosive elements to a greater degree. Other potential issues include the following;
RECP Stapling: If the RECP is not properly stapled, then it will promote the movement of water underneath the product which can wash away the seeds. All access will need to be addressed because if one area is left open, it might lead to disaster.
Overstretched: When not properly applied, there may be areas which are not covered correctly because the RECP is overstretched. That may lead to pockets or areas where the seeds are
Overlap: Since RECP comes in sections, they must be properly overlapped to ensure that no gaps or spaces develop. If they do happen, which often occurs during high winds or rain. Then areas of the soil become exposed.
Entrenchment: Not enough entrenchment at the top or sides of the area may expose the soil underneath the RECP during intense weather conditions. This also means that the land may not have proper drainage if the entrenchment is not sufficient.
Solutions
While it may sound at first that properly employing RECP is difficult, the truth is that when the manufacturer’s instructions are followed and the proper care is taken, the RECP can do its job with less oversight to ensure that the land remains intact.
Enough Staples: The manufacturer will have a recommended list of how many staples should be used to secure the RECP. Be sure to err on the side of caution and use at least what is recommended and additional staples in places where they are needed.
Contact: The better the contact the RECP has with the soil, the more likely it can do its job even under harsh weather conditions. Proper inspection after completion will ensure that it is in full contact.
No Clods: Removing the clods from the soil will help considerably in terms of helping to prevent erosion from occurring underneath the RECP.
Good Overlapping & Entrenchment: If you overlap the RECP like roofing tiles and employ the right entrenchment methods, then the product should stay in place. This means inspecting the top and sides to ensure that they are secure.
You can follow-up with proper maintenance and regular inspections. Be sure to inspect the area after every weather event and at regular intervals to address any small issues before they become big ones.
Tag: Sediment, Erosion, Control, elements, Clods, Entrechment, Overlap, preparation, protected, rolled, solutions, Staples, Stapling
