Question

How does vegetation slow and prevent sediment loss?

Answer 1

Vegetation cover is the most effective and practical way to prevent loss of sediment. The roots of vegetation such as grass bind soil particles together to resist erosion especially from runoff water. Vegetation helps absorb the impact of raindrops to prevent detachment of soil particles. Vegetation can flatten act like shingles on a roof, which allows the runoff to flow above the soil. Stiff standing vegetation act as a wind break, reducing wind velocity, such that it is not powerful enough to dislodge sediments from the ground surface.