Slopes steeper than 3:1 (18 degrees) exceed the capacity of hydroseeding alone to stem erosion in most settings. Water runoff has high erosion potential on steep slopes requiring other measures to be put in place prior to hydroseeding.
Bonded Fiber Matrix (BFM)
BFM can be added to a hydroseed mixture to increase bonding to soil particles reducing water erosion from raindrop impact. BFM is a wood fiber mulch that has polacrylamides, guar gums and synthetic fibers to reinforce the matrix once cured – approximately 24 hours. Despite its high adherences to soil particles and erosion resistance it is still not suited for use where there is flowing water.
BFM use has the added benefit of reducing injury risk to installers when working on steep slopes since it can be done with conventional hydro-seeding equipment. BFM may also be a good choice for environmentally sensitive areas. The use of BFM avoids using erosion control blankets (ECB) which contain threads and fibers that can impact wildlife, birds, and fish. Photodegradable fibers are now available on ECB for installations where there is environmental sensitivity.
Straw wattles can also be used to break up the length of slope which is a critical factor in erosive force and gully erosion.
These products are also used for controlling erosion on steep slopes.
ECBs protect the soil from rill and gully erosion while vegetation is re-establishing.
Straw wattles can also be used to break up the length of slope which is a critical factor in erosive force and gully erosion.