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Stream Bank & Shoreline Stabilization
How it works
Streambank stabilization is important to a riparian system. Streambanks in healthy riparian systems are held together by tree roots and deep roots of prairie grasses. Over time, all streams meander or cut back and forth. During this process, stream banks tend to erod which is a major source of sediment. This process is accelerated in those streambanks that have had the vegetation removed and replaced with crop production or livestock grazing.
There are many ways to slow streambank erosion. These include planting species that thrive in erosion situations such as willow, silver maple, cottonwood, or green ash in and along the stream banks. In addition, placing bundles of eastern red cedar or other cut trees, and willow stake plantings directly on the bank itself can rapidly reduce streambank erosion. Traditional methods of armoring the bank by placing riprap and boulders can also be used. Boulder weirs or pool and riffle structures can also be used to help stabilize the stream bed and reduce down cutting.
How it helps
- Improves water quality by reducing streambank erosion and sedimentation into streams.
- Improves habitat for both terrestrial and aquatic life by reducing sediment and nutrient loads and increasing available oxygen in the water.
Link to NRCS Standards & Specifications
ISU Agroecology Issues Team
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