Plants for Problem Areas

by John R. Piskac, Resource Conservationist
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Manhattan, Kansas

In Kansas a typical soil erosion problem caused by water or wind can have several remedies. In most cases, one or a combination of soil-conserving practices may be used to solve the erosion problem. Producers may choose structural practices, such as terraces, or rely on less management practices, such as crop rotations or reduced tillage systems, to reduce soil erosion. These options work fine in the majority of cases. However, when the problem is severe, more drastic measures may be needed.

Certain soil and land surface characteristics present erosion problems that are troublesome. For various reasons, these critically eroding areas are beyond a level that may be treated effectively with conventional conservation practices. Left unchecked, these situations can result in severe erosion that becomes progressively more difficult to solve. Examples of potentially severe problems are areas of concentrated runoff resulting in gullies, steep, bare areas that occur during construction activities, and fields that are especially susceptible to wind erosion.

Extremely erosive areas can be stabilized with vegetation. Perennial plants provide ground cover and residue on the soil surface that cushions the impact of raindrops. Also, vegetation reduces the velocity and concentration of runoff water and increases infiltration. Plant roots bind and reduce the movement of soil particles caused by flowing water or wind. Furthermore, living plants take water from the soil in the process of growth, providing infiltration capacity for rain while decaying roots supply an avenue for moisture intake. Research indicates that live perennial plants, such as those supplied by nature, are an effective barrier against erosion.

Plant materials that are adapted and developed for conservation use are generally available from commercial sources. These species have been selected for specific site and climatic conditions and for particular traits that make them ideal for the intended purpose. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has information on recommended conservation plants for each locality, acceptable planting rates, methods of establishment, and care. In addition, the NRCS Plant Materials Centers located throughout the United States may have plants available for a particular conservation need and for research or demonstration purposes. It is through this source that hard-to-find plants can often be obtained to solve particularly difficult conservation problems.

Producers have made great strides in conserving the country’s precious soil resource. Some of the most difficult soil erosion problems have been solved through the healing properties of plants. If you have a hard to manage erosion situation, contact your local Natural Resources Conservation Service office or conservation district office located at you local county USDA Service Center for assistance. You might find that plants are the best answer!

For more information about NRCS programs, visit the Kansas NRCS web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov.

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Last Modified: 09/08/2008