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Vegetation refers to a ground cover that serves as soil protection from the forces of erosion. It is the most efficient method of controlling soil erosion. Maintaining existing vegetation and establishing new ones stabilizes slopes, keeps soil firm together, reduces the speed of stormwater runoff, increases surface roughness and water infiltration, traps sediments, and controls soil erosion. In addition, vegetation captures other pollutants including sediments, nutrients and other toxic chemicals, thereby ensuring water quality.

Fact Sheets

Using Vegetation for Erosion Control, Oklahoma State University

Temporary Erosion Control Seeding, Iowa Statewide Urban Design and Specification

Permanent Seeding, Iowa Statewide Urban Design and Specification

Preservation of Existing Vegetation , Caltrans California

Ground cover, Northern River Catchment Management Authority Australia

Handbooks/Manuals

Vegetation Barriers for Erosion Control, Kika de la Garza Plant Materials Center Texas