Preventing Soil Erosion and Sediment Runoff When Clearing Ditches

Question: How can we prevent soil erosion and sediment runoff when cleaning ditches?

 

Answer: Soils exposed during ditch cleaning are a major source of sediment that can wash into streams. To reduce erosion, maintain vegetation to stabilize soil, filter contaminants, and slow water flow. Remove as little material as possible, and avoid scraping back and fore slopes unless necessary. When scraping is required, leave vegetated strips on the downhill side to trap sediment. Seed immediately after cleaning—ideally before the next storm and early in the growing season—and use hydroseeding if quick cover is needed. Buffer strips of uncleaned sections can reduce erosion and allow seed to germinate. Use native seed mixes with limited fertilizer, and water as needed to ensure growth; contact your local Soil and Water Conservation District for recommended native seed mixtures.