Streambank stabilization consists of using vegetation or structural materials to stabilize and protect banks of streams, brooks, rivers, or excavated channels against scour and erosion from flowing water. Streambank vegetation that is sufficiently developed contributes large woody material to streams, creates critical structural elements of habitats for many different species. Still streambanks stabilized with shrub and tree vegetation provides excellent habitat for fish and wildlife species. Maine's fisheries rely on a combination of shading and leaf drop by the plants. Shading protects fish species from "thermal pollution" -- when the water heats up too much for fish to thrive. Leaf litter provides the first link in the food chain -- a food source for the insects that young fish feed on.
The purpose of streambank stabilization is:
To prevent stream damage due to utilities, roads, buildings, or other facilities adjacent to the banks,
To maintain the capacity of the channel,
To control channel meander that would adversely affect downstream facilities,
To reduce sediment loads causing downstream damages and pollution,
To improve the stream as a habitat for fish and wildlife.
LCP Erosion control fabric and coir logs ensures efficient establishment of vegetation on stream banks |