What Is Done to Reduce Soil Erosion on Steep Slopes?

Drainage

• Controlling the drainage on a steep slope helps prevent erosion. Drains should preferably empty at the bottom of the slope, but, if necessary, you can place extension pipes onto the drain to carry the water to the base of the hill. A rain garden, a bed of native plants or grasses, planted on the depressed ground near the point of discharge, collects some of the excess water and lets it soak into the soil naturally. A trench filled with gravel at the slope bottom also aids in draining runoff.

Terrace

• Terracing a slope and planting vegetation on the individual sections creates a hillside feature that captures rainwater and lets it soak into the ground rather than erode the soil as it flows toward the slope bottom. Vegetation, such as ground covers, soak up runoff and add to the attractiveness of the hill. The plants' foliage provides visual interest and also stops the rain from striking the soil, which can often lead to erosion.

Trees and Vegetables

• Planting trees and shrubs on a steep slope creates an erosion barrier as the plants soak up much of the runoff. Mulch all trees and shrubs on steep slopes. Mulch quickens the pace at which excess water soaks into the ground, giving it less opportunity to carry away soil. When planting a vegetable garden on a slope, arrange the rows horizontally across the slope rather than vertically. When removing a dead or dying tree, always plant a replacement.

Weight

• Avoid adding any extra weight to the slope, as this can increase the chances of soil loss. Structures such as sheds, outbuildings or patios might lessen the hill's ability to halt erosion and even lead to a catastrophic failure of the slope. Using the hill as a dumping ground for trash or debris adds unnecessary weight and might also kill the roots of any vegetation. Remove any fallen trees at once.