Drainage line with sedges
All the recent rain has caused running creeks, full dams and water collecting in low lying areas. Much of that water has been laden with silt and everyone who saw TV footage of the floods around Ingham would certainly have been aware of the brown water which inevitably flowed into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. Our silt-laden water makes its way into the many streams which have their source up here on the plateau, and eventually out to sea.
Silt results from soil erosion in its various forms and gully erosion, sheet erosion and stream bank erosion can be reduced, if not always entirely prevented. It’s a matter of protecting the surface of the soil and reducing the speed at which the water flows across the landscape. Even on building sites where the soil is unavoidably exposed, run-off can be significantly reduced with genuinely effective silt barriers.
Some gullies only run after particularly heavy rain and can be planted with sedges, grasses and other plants with an extensive root system. Where there is an existing canopy and shade, logs and rocks placed across the gully floor will slow the water and help to control erosion further down.
A dense tree canopy and deep litter on the ground will stop droplet splash from damaging the soil surface. Swales constructed across the contour will collect water and allow it to soak into the soil. A dense mat of grass will reduce sheet erosion, which happens when the surface layer of soil starts to move. Stock crossings can be concreted to prevent damage to the stream bed. Nature reduces the speed at which runoff enters water-courses with trees, shrubs and understorey plants.
There are many ways to control erosion and keep our streams running clear. Our soils are susceptible to erosion so it is in our interest to keep that soil where it belongs, on our properties. Barung can provide information and advice on erosion control methods.
Barung Native Plant Nursery Open Mon- Fri 8.30am to 4 pm Saturdays 9am to noon Next to Maleny Post Office, Riverside Centre Phone 5494 3151
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