Soil Erosion

The slope is a geographic feature which has positives and negatives. Its greatest benefit for property owners is that it can separate their property from a nearby street, giving them greater privacy while cutting down noise. However, slopes can also be hazardous, because they are susceptible to a phenomenon called runoff and soil erosion. While slopes and hills certainly have their benefits, they must be kept under control.

What is Soil Erosion?

Soil erosion is the deterioration of land, which results from rain or the presence of water. While it is commonly observed at construction or excavation sites, these aren’t the only locations where it occurs. Residential properties are also vulnerable to the erosion of their top soil, and contrary to popular belief, you won’t always see mudslides and gullies. Erosion can be subtle; so much so that it can be undetected by homeowners for months or years.

Other, less noticeable indications of soil erosion include roots which are exposed, mud on the pavement or soil splashing. Runoff which occurs down the street from your property, or anywhere in the neighborhood, could have an indirect, adverse effect on your soil. In the best case scenario, soil erosion is visually unattractive. In the worst case scenario, it can become a major hazard, as it will cause runoff from lawns, which results in the eradication of top soil. Top soil contains organic matter which is important for microorganisms, and soil erosion will ultimately cause contaminants and chemicals to enter the water.

Why Should You Get Soil Erosion Repair?

Repairing soil erosion will provide stabilization to the soil which comprises the slope or hill. This is essential as the soil in these spots is usually low in microorganisms and will experience compaction as a result. Soil repair services, in a nutshell, involve the management of slopes so that soil erosion is significantly reduced or eliminated entirely. This may be done through baffles which serve as obstruction units which will slow down water or divert it from flowing down the slope directly. It typically involves timber or stone which is buried partially (positioned parallel to the hill).

Another option is a riprap, which is a loose, tough stone made of granite which averages about 6” to 8” in width which is embedded into or positioned on top of the slope. It will also divert or slow down the water flow and works well aesthetically when it is combined with rock garden plants.

Why Choose Fitz’s Fish Ponds for Soil Erosion Repair?

If left unchecked, soil erosion will seriously wreck your property, while contributing to the deterioration of local water supplies and land condition. This is why we employ a tried and true erosion management program where our specialists will evaluate your property and come up with a customized plan that will allow the erosion to be reduced. Furthermore, we can rebuild land structures which have become damaged, while putting barriers in place which will prevent erosion from reoccurring. Contact us today to learn more!