What Causes Erosion? 5 Tips on How to Prevent Soil Erosion

​For construction companies weighing their options for erosion control products, finding the right erosion control solution is critical. With so many factors causing erosion, how to prevent soil erosion is a topic on the minds of many concerned landowners and construction professionals.

In this article, we will discuss seven tips for preventing soil erosion and preserving natural resources.

 Soil Erosion Basics

From its simplest explanation, soil erosion is the process by which topsoil is carried away by wind or water, leaving the soil barren and susceptible to damage. Topsoil is incredibly important in preventing flooding, maintaining biodiversity, and providing structural support to any construction foundations. 

A few major causes of soil erosion are:

• Overgrazing of land
• Excessive use of chemicals and fertilizers
• Deforestation
• Poor irrigation methods
• Improper construction practices

Soil erosion is a top concern for construction managers because when soil erodes, it not only affects the health of the surrounding environment but also poses a threat to infrastructure and property.

How can your construction team prevent soil erosion?

Before starting any construction project, it is essential to assess the site and identify potential risks of soil erosion. This can be done through a thorough site analysis and consultation with environmental experts. Once you identify the risks, you can take steps to prevent future erosion problems.

Here are a few top ways how to prevent soil erosion for your construction project:

1. Plant Vegetative Cover 

Establishing vegetation such as grasses, shrubs, and trees creates a natural barrier against erosion. Their roots bind the soil, while the canopy reduces the impact of rain and wind. If quick results are needed, consider hydroseeding, a method that distributes seeds mixed with water and mulch to establish cover rapidly.

2. Use Mulch or Erosion Control Blankets 

Covering bare soil with mulch, such as straw or bark, reduces the force of raindrops and retains moisture, preventing soil particles from getting loosened. Biodegradable erosion control blankets can be used for additional protection on slopes during construction or restoration projects.

3. Apply Acrylic Polymer Sprays 

If you're familiar with a spray system for dust control, acrylic polymer sprays are a similar option for erosion control. These sprays can be applied to bare soil or mulch, forming a protective film on the surface that resists water and wind erosion. These sprays are typically biodegradable and environmentally friendly, making them a popular choice for erosion control.

4. Improve Drainage Systems 

Proper drainage solutions, such as downspouts, slope drains, or French drains, redirect water flow from vulnerable areas. By minimizing water runoff, these systems significantly reduce the risk of erosion.

5. Use Geotextile Fabrics 

These specially designed synthetic materials reinforce soil and prevent displacement in areas with heavy rainfall or water flow. Often used on slopes, geotextile fabrics provide long-term stability and reduce the need for erosion-related maintenance.

How to Prevent Soil Erosion with Envirotac

Understanding how to prevent soil erosion is a critical step toward sustainable land management.  With advanced technologies and proven methods, Envirotac II/Rhino Snot  products offer a comprehensive solution for erosion control.

Environmental Products & Applications has been in the business of soil stabilization and dust control solutions for over 25 years. Our Envirotac line of products is the most used dust control/soil stabilization chemical by the United States Armed Forces. 

Contact us today to learn more about our Envirotac line of erosion control products.