Erosion seems like a natural process, and in theory, it is. Essentially, the action of erosion involves a layer of soil or rocks being removed from a surface, which typically occurs over time. Erosion can be attributed to environmental factors like wind and rain, and a certain amount of erosion is to be expected over time. However, if erosion exceeds a certain expected amount, there can be negative consequences. Fortunately, research allows us to know how much erosion is to be expected. For example, a healthy forest can expect a certain amount of erosion without causing alarm. But that erosion will only occur very slowly; on average, a forest should see no more than 300 pounds per acre per year.
Unfortunately, due to a number of different factors, it’s possible for erosion levels to exceed the expected amounts. If an individual lives an area in which the levels of erosion are getting out of control, it’s possible that they, or the government officials involved, may rely on the assistance of erosion control specialists.
What Are Erosion Control Specialists?
Erosion control specialists fulfill a unique task, and essentially act as scientists and experts on the land quality in a specific area. Usually, they will be involved in overseeing conservation efforts, or forestry, in general, to make sure that that erosion is taken into account during a variety of different plans and activities. If land is being developed, for example, an erosion control specialist will be involved to ensure that the land is not being overly stressed. For that matter, if a homeowner is planning out a specific landscaping project, the erosion control specialists they work with will advise them on how to accomplish that project in accordance with local laws and ordinances. Erosion control specialists can be seen both as advocates for the local environment, and also assistants to contractors and homeowners alike.
Why Should I Work With An Erosion Control Specialist?
If you’re at all concerned about the environment, whether or not to employ erosion services while working on your landscape should be an easy decision. Not only will they help you make decisions that have the least negative environmental impact possible; they will also help provide revegetation services, which will help the environment recover from any impact your efforts do have. When working in conjunction with an erosion control specialist, you can accomplish your landscaping goals without feeling guilty. Another benefit of working with erosion control specialists is that they can lessen the potential damage done to your property, and therefore lessen the amount you’ll potentially have to pay to mend that damage. Finally, erosion control specialists help homeowners, or landowners in general, make changes in compliance with the law, protecting their clients from complications down the road.
What Methods To Erosion Control Specialists Employ?
There are a variety of strategies available to property owners attempting to avoid erosion. Usually, erosion control specialists will advise creating some kind of barrier between the eroding forces and the land. This may involve vegetation, rocks, or more unorthodox barriers depending on the local requirements. The great thing about more natural barriers is that they’re far less noticeable, and blend into the local environment. Erosion control may come in the form of the aforementioned revegetation, as well as hydroseeding. Hydroseeding essentially plants the types of seeds needed for eventual erosion control through a slurry mixture of seeds and mulch. Hydroseeding can be completed in less time than other planting methods, with fast results and a natural-looking landscape. It also is typically more cost-effective than dry seeding. Erosion control specialists can further advise clients on the methods that will be most cost-effective, adding to the many benefits they offer.
Erosion control specialists can assist with a number of different projects, some large scale and some small scale. No matter how great the project, however, it’s important that erosion control specialists are taken seriously, and that their advice is followed. This will yield the best results for the environment and the landowner alike.