EcoGro Steep Slope Stabilization

As you may find on many construction developments, there is usually a spot on a steep, sunny bank that lacks vegetation and exposes the soil to more serious problems. The soil lacks organic material, can't retain enough moisture or could suffer from compaction. Often these conditions are too severe for common turf grasses to survive. These plants lack the extensive root systems required to access water and nutrients below the surface. In addition, the shallow root systems (which may only grow 4” - 6”) have limited mechanical strength to physically hold the soil particles together. Without vegetative cover, the bare soil and difficult conditions can lead to a slope failure.
The ability of native plants to anchor, stabilize and flourish on harsh slopes is apparent across Kentucky’s natural landscape. Wherever earth-shaping forces have exposed bare ground, there are plant communities that have adapted to colonize and protect the soil from further degradation. EcoGro replicates these plant communities by selecting native grasses, wildflowers, trees and shrubs best suited to uphold challenging slopes. In addition, soil bioengineering techniques and materials can be incorporated to add structure and reinforce slope stability.
Another key difference of the natural approach is a drastic reduction of maintenance costs and safety hazards. If a slope is planted with turf grasses, it is expected to be mowed regularly, watered during droughts, fertilized annually and periodically aerated. This high-maintenance situation creates an unnecessary safety hazard for grounds maintenance personnel and can lead to costly equipment damage. A low-maintenance native landscape provides much more aesthetic value while reducing the frequency and costs of upkeep. By establishing a much more sustainable solution, EcoGro can provide the means to transform a eye-sore into an asset. Services include: