Erosion Control

Frequently Asked Questions About Erosion Control Products

• What are erosion control products and how do they work?

  Erosion control products are materials used to protect bare soil from the forces of rain, wind, and water runoff. Each product prevents soil erosion by slowing down sediment movement, retaining moisture, and creating a stable ground environment where plants and grasses can establish and thrive. Once vegetation is established, the root systems take over and provide natural, long-term soil stabilization.

• What is the best material for erosion control?

  The best material depends on your slope, site conditions, and how long you need protection. Here is a quick breakdown of the most common options:

  • Coconut fiber blankets are ideal for steep slopes and high-flow channels. Fully biodegradable and provide long-term erosion protection.
  • Straw-coconut blankets work well on moderate slopes and medium-flow channels, offering solid mid-range protection for soil stabilization.
  • Straw blankets are a cost-effective choice for gentle slopes and short-term erosion prevention, degrading naturally as vegetation establishes.
  • Straw wattles are best for slowing runoff velocity along slope contours and around drainage inlets and channels.
  • Silt fences are the go-to sediment control product for construction sites, commonly used on residential and commercial projects near waterways.

• Which erosion control product is right for my slope?

  Choosing the right product starts with understanding your slope ratio. Steeper slopes need heavier, longer-lasting materials to effectively control erosion, while gentle slopes can be managed with lighter, short-term options.

  • 3:1 slopes (gentle). Double Net Straw Blanket for low to medium flow conditions.
  • 2:1 slopes (moderate). Straw-Coconut Blanket for medium-flow channels and longer protection.
  • 1:1 slopes or steeper. Coconut Erosion Control Blanket for high-flow channels, embankments, and shorelines.

  Straw wattles can be used across all slope types as check dams to slow water velocity and capture sediment before it reaches waterways or ditches.

• Why is grass planted on bare hillsides?

  Planting grass and native vegetation on bare hillsides is one of the most effective long-term methods to reduce erosion and prevent soil loss. Root systems anchor the soil, hold topsoil in place, and reduce surface runoff significantly. Erosion control blankets and straw cover are often used together with seeding to protect seedlings during early establishment until vegetation takes hold and soil health improves.

• What is the cheapest way to prevent erosion?

  For budget-conscious projects, straw-based products offer some of the most affordable erosion prevention available. The HydroStraw All Purpose Straw Bale is a practical low-cost option for covering bare soil, protecting seeds, and reducing runoff on smaller areas.

  For larger slopes, a straw erosion control blanket provides reliable short-term protection while allowing vegetation to establish underneath. A silt fence is also an affordable sediment control solution for construction sites near streams and waterways.

• How do erosion control blankets work?

  Rolled erosion control products like blankets are laid directly over bare soil on slopes and disturbed areas to shield the ground from rain and wind. They retain moisture in the soil, which supports seedling growth and vegetation establishment underneath. As plants take root, biodegradable blankets break down naturally into the soil without the need for removal, which also contributes to long-term soil health.

• How do I install erosion control products properly?

  Proper installation is key to effective erosion control and preventing soil loss on slopes and disturbed areas. For rolled erosion control products like blankets, start by preparing the bare soil surface, removing debris, and seeding the area before laying the blanket. Secure the edges and ends with stakes or staples and overlap seams to ensure full ground coverage and reduce erosion from water moving under the material.

  For straw wattles, install them along the slope contour and stake them firmly into the ground to slow runoff and protect soil health. A well-installed erosion control system not only controls erosion during the establishment phase but also supports long-term vegetation growth by keeping topsoil in place.

• What are straw wattles used for?

  Straw wattles are cylindrical tubes filled with compacted weed-free straw, installed along slope contours to slow water velocity and trap sediment. They act as check dams that prevent soil particles from washing downhill during heavy rains. They are commonly used on slopes, around water inlets, catch basins, and topsoil stockpiles on landscaping and construction projects.

• When should I use a silt fence on a construction site?

  A silt fence is the most commonly used sediment control product on residential and commercial construction sites. It is installed along the downhill edges of disturbed areas to block sediment from washing into nearby waterways and drainage channels. Silt fences are a temporary solution used during active construction until the ground is stabilized and vegetation is established.

  For related ground cover and fabric solutions, browse our landscape fabric collection for additional options that support soil protection.

• How are erosion control products shipped and delivered?

  Rivendell Distribution ships smaller erosion control products via standard carriers including FedEx, USPS, and UPS, with shipping rates calculated at checkout. For larger orders, local delivery is available across the Western Slope of Colorado. Some products in this collection have limited availability and require calling ahead to confirm stock.

  For delivery details and scheduling, visit our shipping information page or call us for custom order inquiries. You can also visit us in person at 3961 County Road 114, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601.