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Public Information Center     State of Alaska > Natural Resources > A Revegetation Manual For Alaska > Chapter 10
   

Chapter 10: Mulch and Erosion Matting

When deciding on the use of a mulch, such as straw or an erosion matting, several factors should be considered; erosion potential due to wind or water is the first consideration.  If the soil does not have a high erosion potential, then mulch and/or matting should be skipped.


Well-placed excelsior blankets being used to control erosion prior to vegetation growth.


Damage to an excelsior blanket product when used in severe wind areas.

Figure 76:  Well-placed excelsior blankets being used to control erosion prior to vegetation growth. Figure 77:  Damage to an excelsior blanket product when used in severe wind areas.  The plastic backing separated from the wood fiber and created a non-degradable mess capable of entrapping small wildlife.

The second consideration is cost.  Application of mulch and matting add significant costs to a project; not only in materials, but also in labor. 

The third consideration is safety.  Sections of netting may come loose and cause hazards to wildlife and property. 


The plastic web or backing has created traps that have ensnared birds and fish

 

Figure 78:  The plastic web or backing has created traps that have ensnared birds and fish - the use of this product should be carefully considered and based on true need and area of use, considering potential consequences.  

A final concern is that straw may introduce unwanted weeds.

The above concerns do not apply to wood and paper fiber or similar products used in hydroseeders.  When hydroseeders are used, mulch is standard.  The mulch fiber forms a slurry that acts as a carrier for the seed and fertilizer.  Without the mulch, seed and fertilizer would not suspend in solution and uniform distribution would be impossible.  The mulch also marks the area that has been treated.

Table 4.  Mulch and Netting Comparison Chart

 Mulch/
Netting
Type

Difficulty In Using
Correctly

 Erosion Resistance
(Relative)

Cost
(Relative)

 Cost to Apply
(Relative)

 Environment Restrictions for Use

 Soil Type Where Most Effective

Wood or
Paper Fiber
Mulch

No

Low

Low

Low

Few

All

Straw
Mulch

No

Medium

Low

Moderate

High Winds Hamper Use

Fine Grain

Jute Mesh -
Type Netting

Yes

Medium

Moderate

High

None

Course Grain

Tack Netting

Yes

Low

Moderate

High

None

Course Grain

Excelsior -
Type Blankets

Yes

High

High

High

Plastic Netting
Can Be a Problem

All

Chemical Stabilizers

No

Varies

Varies

Low

Temperature Requirement
For Application

Course Grain

 
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