When should I consult erosion control professionals?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Some erosion challenges require professional experience, rather than a do-it-yourself approach. I have been brought onto projects where the lack of expert engagement and, therefore, timely mitigation resulted in an expensive failure. Knowing the right time to contact professionals before you lose property is crucial, and engineering professionals can handle the complexities of the (site-specific) risks related to your land. They have the expertise to diagnose and design solutions.
Extreme Terrain
- Slopes exceeding 45 degrees needing structural reinforcement
- Unstable soil conditions requiring geotechnical assessment
- Properties with elevation drops over 20 feet
Persistent Problems
- Recurring erosion after multiple DIY attempts
- Areas losing more than 2 inches of topsoil annually
- Sites with expanding gullies despite interventions
Regulatory Projects
- NRCS compliance requirements for agricultural land
- State environmental regulations near waterways
- Municipal codes for construction site runoff control
For slopes exceeding 45 degrees, professionals install engineered terraces with adequate drainage incorporated into the installation. They will calculate the exact angles and the required reinforcement. I have watched DIY travesties fail miserably on these slopes. Professionals will prevent landslides using soil anchors and geogrids that are out of reach of a homeowner.
If erosion persists despite your attempts, a professional can identify the underlying cause. Professionals identify whether you have a subsurface water issue or soil instability. They implement solutions such as a French drain system or retention walls, and warranties are provided, this cycle of temporary repairs and money wasted stops.
Large agricultural or construction projects require scaled solutions- engineers can develop a legally-compliant silt fence and sediment basin. They will even work with NRCS to make conservation plans. I have managed projects on 100 acres where a professional was overseeing, and we avoided an EPA fine in six figures.
To prepare for consultations, you need to document the erosion history. You take a photo after each rain event. You also note previous attempts to address the issue. The professional will use this to develop a customized plan. They'll come up with an effective solution within your budget. Many providers offer plans in phases, making the budget more consistent over time and across seasons.
Investing in professional expertise may deliver long-term benefits. My clients typically save 3-5 times the initial investment by avoiding the need for repeated repairs. More importantly, the benefit is the peace of mind that comes with having their land well-protected from extreme weather hazards. A professional solution is a long-term investment in your landscape.
Read the full article: 9 Effective Ways to Prevent Soil Erosion
