Erosion Control Products for Steep Slopes

Double-netted blankets, particularly coconut fiber (coir) options, are best for steep slopes. They are rated for up to 1:1 slopes and provide 2–3 years of longevity, giving vegetation ample time to establish. American Excelsior's Curlex line offers single-net options for 3:1 slopes and double-net options for steeper 1:1 grade applications.

Longevity varies by material: straw blankets last approximately 3 months, wood fiber blankets last 12–24 months, and coconut fiber (coir) blankets last 2–3 years. For permanent protection on steep slopes, hard armor solutions like Flexamat or Concrete Canvas should be considered instead of biodegradable blankets.

Many options are biodegradable, including straw, wood fiber, and coconut fiber erosion control blankets, coir fiber logs, sediment logs, and hydroseeding mulches. These are designed to break down naturally once vegetation is established. For permanent protection, non-biodegradable systems like Flexamat, Cellular Confinement, or Concrete Canvas are recommended.

Yes. Erosion control blankets retain moisture and soil warmth to aid seed germination. Flexamat allows grass to grow through its mat and can be mowed once established. Hydroseeding delivers seed, fertilizer, and mulch in one application. ScourStop and coir fiber logs also facilitate natural plant establishment over time.

Temporary biodegradable solutions — such as straw or wood fiber blankets and sediment logs — suit short-term construction disturbances where vegetation will take over. Permanent solutions like Flexamat, Concrete Canvas, Cellular Confinement, and geogrids are ideal for long-term infrastructure such as roadside channels, riverbanks, detention basins, and high-velocity flow areas.

Coleman Moore offers several NPDES-compliant products suitable for steep slope applications, including American Excelsior Curlex Erosion Control Blankets and ScourStop vegetated mats. These products meet stormwater management requirements commonly mandated for construction sites and civil infrastructure projects under NPDES permit conditions.