Extension Publications

Mulch Options for Erosion Control on Construction Sites

This publication discusses important characteristics, application rates, costs, and appropriate use of loose mulch, erosion control blankets, and hydraulically applied mulches as erosion control measures on construction sites.

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Replacing Asphalt: Recommendations for Straw Tackifiers

There are a number of viable alternatives to asphalt for tackifying straw to hold it in place as an erosion control measure on construction sites. This publication reviews these alternatives and makes recommendations based on effectiveness, cost, and application.

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Technical Guides & Tools

Resources focused on restoring disturbed soils, improving infiltration, supporting vegetation establishment, and strengthening long-term site stabilization.

• NCDOT Stabilization Guidelines
• Temporary Seeding
• Permanent Seeding
• Mulching
• Riprap
• Rolled Erosion Control Products (RECPs)
• Compost Blankets

Research Publications

• Evaluation of seven mulch treatments for erosion control and vegetation establishment on steep slopes
  Lee, G., McLaughlin, R. A., Whitely, K. D., & Brown, V. K. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation, 2018.
  Compared mulch treatments for reducing erosion and supporting vegetation establishment on steep slopes.
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• Granular and dissolved polyacrylamide effects on erosion and runoff under simulated rainfall
  Kang, J., Amoozegar, A., Heitman, J. L., & McLaughlin, R. A. Journal of Environmental Quality, 2014.
  Examined how granular and dissolved polyacrylamide applications influenced soil erosion and runoff under simulated rainfall.
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• Runoff water quality and vegetative establishment for groundcovers on steep slopes
  Babcock, D. L., & McLaughlin, R. A. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation, 2011.
  Evaluated how different groundcovers affected runoff water quality and vegetation establishment on steep slopes.
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• Evaluation of erosion control products with and without added polyacrylamide
  McLaughlin, R. A., & Brown, T. T. Journal of the American Water Resources Association, 2006.
  Evaluated erosion control products with and without polyacrylamide to determine their effects on erosion and sediment loss.
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Related Demonstrations

Covering up bare soil with a good ground cover can reduce erosion by more than 90%. Adding polyacrylamide to that provides even better erosion control and reduced turbidity. Dr. McLaughlin demonstrates the effectiveness of different groundcovers using the rainfall simulator.