Reduction in interrill sediment transport by rolled erosion control systems

Rolled erosion control systems (RECS) reduce detachment and transport of sediment by mitigating the basic processes of run-off and erosion (e.g., splash detachment, interrill transport, run-off velocity, surface crusting). Despite the variety of products available in the market today, only limited research has been conducted on their influence on erosion subprocesses. This study addresses some of the limitations of previous research by using laboratory rainfall simulation to study rainsplash sediment redistribution, run-off, total interrill sediment transport, and aggregate size transport from an erodible Vertisol. Three 3-h rainfall simulations were conducted on a 20° slope at a rainfall intensity of ≈100 mm h^?1 on (1) a bare soil control, (2) four predominately natural RECS, and (3) four synthetic RECS. Data indicate that all products significantly reduced run-off (enhanced infiltration), and decreased interrill sediment transport compared to the bare soil control. However, it was observed that several products (C125, Curlex I, Geojute, SC150BN, TB1000, and P300) were statistically more effective than PECMAT and TerraJute. Finally, preferential transport of selected aggregate fractions was examined. Cover percentage, three-dimensionality, and drapability were identified as favorable physical attributes for mitigating erosion processes.