How to Install Erosion Blankets With an ATV

Determine the type and size of erosion blanket is best for your application. Erosion control blankets made from natural fibers such as: aspen fiber, coconut fiber and straw, typically biodegrade in approximately one year. Synthetic erosion blankets, such as those made from polypropylene, can last several years. Also, erosion control blankets come in a variety of widths, that most often range from 3 feet to 8 feet. If you have a large area you need to apply erosion blankets, select 8-foot width blankets. Your ATV is useful no matter which size you select, but particularly so for the larger rolls, which are quite heavy.

Prepare the area to be covered. Grade the slope you'll be with your ATV and a pull-behind grader. Any large deviations in the grade of the land will prevent the erosion blanket from properly making contact with the ground. This will allow water to run freely under the blanket in these spots. Remove any large boulders for this reason as well. Dig a trench along the top of the slope, where you'll be installing the erosion blanket. Save the soil for back fill.

Transport your rolls of erosion blankets to the top of the hill. This is often the most difficult part of installing an erosion control blanket; however, using an ATV makes this much simpler. Place one or more rolls on to the ATV trailer and carefully drive it to the top of the slope. If possible, do not drive over the face of the slope you'll be covering with the erosion blanket. Unload the rolls at the top of the hill.

Install the erosion blankets. Unroll each blanket, placing one end of the blanket into the trench and then carefully unrolling it down the hill. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding the placement of anchors along the roll. Install the next roll so that the edge overlaps the one next to it. Once all rolls are installed, backfill the trench with the dirt you saved and tap it into place to hold the rolls securely to the top of the hill.