Erosion may seem like a natural process, but uncontrolled erosion can cause major problems for ecosystems. Implementing erosion control measures is crucial for environmental health. As you learn about the impacts, you'll see why sustainable erosion management matters. Here are some of the ways erosion control helps the environment.

Prevents Harmful Sedimentation and Runoff

As soil erodes, sediment and contaminants enter waterways, disrupting freshwater and marine habitats. Excess sediment clouds waters, preventing sunlight from reaching aquatic plants. It also clogs fish gills and smothers coral reefs and benthic organisms. Meanwhile, nutrient runoff from fertilizers feeds algal blooms, which deplete oxygen as they decompose. According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, erosion control is important because around 30% of the state's rivers and streams are impaired by sediment. Clearly, limiting erosion regulates sedimentation and runoff, giving ecosystems room to thrive. Through the proper strategies, professionals can help you safeguard local water quality.

Protects Land and Soil Health

While erosion is a process that occurs naturally, human activity certainly accelerates it. Unsustainable farming, grazing, deforestation, and construction all expose soil. Once removed, topsoil rich in organic matter and microbes can take centuries to regenerate. Yet, healthy soil is essential for food production, climate regulation, and water filtration. There are various ways for soil to become unhealthy, so it's crucial to make sure it remains healthy. By covering the bare ground and implementing conservation tillage, you help preserve this precious resource and allow ecosystems to function.

Saves Money on Maintenance and Repairs

In addition to environmental impacts, unchecked erosion also takes a financial toll over time. Sediment fills water conveyances, necessitating dredging. Slope failures undermine roads, foundations, and more. Stream bank collapses can be catastrophic. Getting erosion under control is much more affordable than constant repairs. Strategically placed vegetation, gravel bags, and revetments absorb impact while also filtering runoff. By making proactive investments in erosion control systems, you save a lot on maintenance.

Erosion control benefits ecosystems as well as infrastructure. Supporting natural processes through sustainable management practices leads to healthier water and land. With some thoughtful effort, preventing excessive erosion is within your grasp. Protect your surroundings and safeguard the environment for the future by starting an erosion control initiative today. Our team can help. Reach out to Windscapes today and let us help you with erosion control solutions for your property.