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When natural disasters strike, erosion and sediment control practices play a critical role in protecting the environment and supporting recovery efforts.
Wildfires, which are becoming increasingly frequent and severe, can significantly destabilize soil. Post-fire erosion rates can increase up to 60 times compared to pre-fire levels, depending on rainfall intensity and fire severity. This accelerated runoff can carry large volumes of sediment into nearby waterways, negatively impacting water quality, damaging watersheds and even overwhelming water treatment facilities.
To mitigate these effects, erosion control practices such as Rolled Erosion Control Products (RECPs) and Hydraulic Erosion Control Products (HECPs) are commonly deployed across burn scars. These products not only prevent further erosion and reduce runoff but also support revegetation by incorporating native seed mixtures. For example, RECPs are installed with seed placed underneath, while HECPs can be mixed with seed and applied as a slurry. This method was effectively used in response to the 2018 Santa Barbara, Calif., wildfire, where over 281,000 acres were burned. In addition to surface protection, Sediment Retention Fiber Rolls (SRFRs) like wattles can be used as slope interceptors to slow water flow and capture sediment.
Similar erosion control applications are crucial following hurricanes. Intense rainfall and flooding can wash away soil along highways and steep slopes, triggering landslides and threatening infrastructure. Rapid deployment of RECPs and HECPs can stabilize soils immediately and help control further erosion. Sediment control devices are also critical in these scenarios, capturing displaced soil and preventing sediment from polluting downstream waterways. These products are designed for quick transport and installation, even in difficult or remote locations, and are available in biodegradable options to support long-term environmental recovery.
When disasters occur, the erosion control industry stands ready to assist in recovery. A wide range of effective products and solutions is available through the Erosion Control Technology Council (ECTC). As a nonprofit industry leader, ECTC is dedicated to advancing the knowledge, performance standards, and application guidance for RECPs, HECPs and SRFRs. Through the development of standardized testing procedures and promotion of emerging technologies, ECTC continues to lead the way in erosion and sediment control innovation. Its educational outreach and technical leadership contribute meaningfully to environmental protection and the advancement of erosion control science.
For questions or comments regarding this article, please contact Diane Smith at info@erosioncouncil.org.
Diane Smith is executive director of the Erosion Control Technology Council.