How to Stop Residential Hillside Erosion

Hillside soil erosion is a problem for several reasons. As the soil erodes away from the hill, any structures on top of the hill are in danger of collapsing. The soil can be carried into otherwise clean drinking water, and if there are any chemicals in the soil, they can be spread to other areas of the environment. The hill is also vulnerable to landslides during periods of heavy rain. If this is an issue on your property, there are several ways to address it.

Instructions

- 1
  Landscape the hillside with plants native to your area. The plants will stop the erosion as they take root in the soil, and using native plants prevents damage created by introducing an invasive species.
- 2
  Build a retaining wall with a drainage system along the base of the hill. The wall provides a barrier that keeps the hill from moving, while the drainage system in the ground behind the wall drains water away quickly, preventing it from saturating the hillside.
- 3
  Build terraces into the hillside. This is a process that digs into the hillside and creates leveled areas restrained by retaining walls, turning the hill into a series of steps.
- 4
  Install riprap. These are small stones that usually measure between 6 and 8 inches wide. They can be embedded into the soil or held in position by a giant steel net. You can plant in and around the riprap, which can improve the appearance of what would otherwise be a rock field, while helping to further prevent erosion.

Xerophytic Shrubs

What Is Landscape-Level Planning?

Overall Landscape Planning