Soil erosion is one of the most pressing environmental problems facing the U.S. Today. Nearly 6 billion tons of soil wash or blow away each year. Soil erosion cost between $6 and $16 billion a year. Soil erosion is the deterioration of soil by the physical movement of soil particles from a given site. Wind, water, ice, animals, and the use of tools by man are usually the main causes of soil erosion.
Topsoil contains most of the soil’s nutrients, organic matter, and pesticides. Soil erosion causes the substances to move also. What is left behind is soil with poorer structure, lower water-holding capacity, different pH values, low nutrient levels, and lower resistance to drought. Therefore, fertilizers and organic matter must be added in an attempt restore the soil to its original composition.
Much of the eroded soil is deposited in low lying areas or eventually enters drainage ditches, streams, lakes ponds, or rivers. Soil that enters watercourse reduces water quality, reduces the efficiency of drainage systems and the storage capacity of lakes. This sediment often requires being manual removed. Sediment is considered to be a major pollutant and can inhibit fish spawn and block sunlight that is crucial in plant life.
The four most common soil erosion prevention methods are vegetation, geotextiles, mulch, and retaining walls. Turfgrass is the most cost-effective method for controlling erosion. Grass binds the soil more effectively than any other plant. The reason is that each grass plant has an extensive root system. Healthy turf areas absorb rainfall 6 times more effectively than a wheat field and 4 times better than a hay field. A thick healthy lawn reduces runoff almost to zero. Sod is one way to achieve this but up and coming by popular demand is Hydroseeding.
Hydroseeding is a mixture of fertilize, mulch, seed, and a binding agent called tackifier. It is applied by a machine and is 1/3rd of the price of sod. By applying a layer of mulch to the soil top allows the soil to slowly soak up water, it protects against rain impact, and holds the seed in place so it is not washed away. Mulch also provides protection of seeds from heat and birds during the germination process, and added organic components to enrich the soil after the lawn is established.
by Kent Davis, eParis Extra Columnist
Turf Workz Hydroseeding
Owner
Phone: 903-249-9664
Email: twz@turfworkz.net
Web: www.turfworkz.net
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