What is Erosion Control and Water Management?
Erosion control and water management are important considerations when managing an agricultural property. Many conservation BMPs incorporate the principles of erosion control and water management. Below are specific practices that address issues related to erosion and runoff.
Types of Practices
Critical Area Stabilization
Critical Area Stabilization promotes land shaping and planting of permanent vegetation on eroded areas to stabilize soils.
Grassed Waterways
Grassed waterways are natural or constructed waterways shaped to establish vegetation, to safely convey water across areas of concentrated flow.
Diversions
Diversions are a shaped channel constructed across the general land slope with the purpose of directing nutrients and sediment laden water to sites where it can be used or disposed of safely.
Roof Runoff Control
Roof Runoff Control is designed to collect, control, and convey precipitation runoff from a roof to an appropriate discharge area away from contaminated and/or sensitive areas in a way that will protect water quality.
Benefits
Erosion Control and Water Management Reduces Soil Erosion and Nutrient Loss
Earth shaping and planting practices help move excess water overland without causing erosion and flooding. Plant roots stabilize soil and vegetation reduces water flow and velocity. The vegetation can also trap sediment and absorb and utilize chemicals and nutrients.
Erosion Control and Water Management Improves Water Quality
With permanent cover there is less sediments and nutrients ending up in streams resulting in benefits to water quality as well as fish and wildlife dependent upon healthy streams.
Erosion Control and Water Management Improves Water Quality
With permanent cover there is less sediments and nutrients ending up in streams resulting in benefits to water quality as well as fish and wildlife dependent upon healthy streams.
Resources
Improving Water Quality with Grassed Waterways
Interested in understanding what a grassed waterway is and how it can benefit your property? This publication discusses the purpose of grassed waterways, how they work, and considerations for installing.
