Erosion Control Blankets – Understanding Your Options

In the world of erosion control, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. There are so many methods to prevent erosion and various products used for each method. One effective method of preventing erosion is through the use of erosion control blankets. Erosion control blankets help prevent soil from shifting due to rain. They reduce compaction and soil crusting while allowing the soil to retain moisture that promotes vegetative growth. They come in a variety of materials and learning about each is the best way to find one for your unique needs.

Temporary

If you are looking for a shorter-term solution to erosion, temporary erosion blankets are a great choice. These are made from fibers like straw and wood excelsior woven together with poly netting. They aren’t built to last a lifetime but provide strong temporary resistance to erosion due to rainwater. They also work well as channel liners with smaller slopes. 

Jute Matting

For a longer-lasting solution that is still biodegradable, jute matting is a great option. Manufacturers weave together unbleached, undyed natural jute fibers in a way that has uniform openings for vegetation to grow through. This absorbent erosion control blanket holds water to promote vegetative growth. They hold vegetation in place, allowing the root structure to become stronger. They biodegrade after about two years, releasing nutrients into the soil in the process. By this time, the vegetation can take over as the primary source of erosion control. 

All Natural

All-natural erosion control blankets provide another temporary solution but are completely biodegradable. Bound together by cotton thread, straw, wood excelsior or coconut fibers, they offer an erosion solution that can seamlessly integrate with the environment. The natural materials promote vegetative growth that can take over with erosion control once the blanket biodegrades.

Coir Fiber Matting

For more extreme erosion issues that involve steep slopes or high-velocity flow channels, coir fiber matting is a great solution. The highly durable mats are also versatile enough to form around any contours of soil. They also come in different sizes, strengths, and weights to conform to specific situations. Their woven design allows plants to grow through and the material retains water that supports plant growth. They last for years but eventually biodegrade into the soil. Coir Fiber matting simplifies the most severe erosion control issues. 

Extended Term

Extended-term erosion control blankets have the features of all-natural products but with a longer life cycle. Photodegradable stitching holds together natural straw, excelsior, coconut or a combination of these materials while lasting 24-36 months. In dry areas, areas with steep slopes or other places where vegetation grows slowly, extended-term mats can naturally promote vegetative growth over a longer period of time so these plants can flourish. 

Highest-Quality Erosion Control Blankets

Keep in mind that these are only a few of the many products that provide erosion control.  For more ways to control erosion, see what the experts have to offer. Founded with the purpose of developing products to protect our environment, IWT Cargo Guard’s mission is to provide the most cost-effective products for your project. By quickly analyzing the products and services required for the project, we become an extension of your estimating department. Our commitment to both our clients and the environment is the cornerstone of our business.  Our core values of honesty and integrity along with exceptional service are at the heart of everything we do. You can be confident that you can rely on our support throughout the duration of your project and beyond. At IWT Cargo Guard, we have the knowledge and experience to help you choose exactly what you need. Contact us today.