The effects of soil erosion go beyond the loss of fertile land. It has led to increased pollution and sedimentation in streams and rivers, clogging these waterways and causing declines in fish and other species. And degraded lands are also often less able to hold onto water, which can worsen flooding.

Types of erosion

• Hydraulic action – This is the sheer power of the water as it smashes against the river banks.
• Abrasion – When pebbles grind along the river bank and bed in a sand-papering effect.
• Attrition – When rocks that the river is carrying knock against each other.

wind , water , gravity erosion. There are three main types of soil erosion.

Some of the greatest effects of soil erosion include:

1. Loss of Topsoil. Obviously, this is the biggest effect of soil erosion.
2. Soil Compaction.
3. Reduced Organic and Fertile Matter.
4. Poor Drainage.
5. Issues With Plant Reproduction.
6. Soil Acidity Levels.
7. Long Term Erosion.
8. Water Pollution.

Erosion increases the amount of dust carried by wind, which not only acts as an abrasive and air pollutant but also carries about 20 human infectious disease organisms, including anthrax and tuberculosis.

It is usually caused due to the removal of vegetation, or any activity that renders the ground dry. Farming, grazing, mining, construction and recreational activities are some of the causes of soil erosion. The effects of soil erosion are not just land degradation.

Solved! The Best Plants for Erosion Control

• Creeping plum yew covers large, partial shade areas quickly.
• Plant creeping phlox on sunny slopes for erosion control with a pop of spring color.
• Protect sunny landscape beds with ornamental grasses.
• Plant masses of cotoneaster for flowers, foliage, and fruit in full sun.

• 04 of 11. Japanese Spurge.
• 05 of 11. Spotted Dead Nettle.
• 06 of 11. Border Grass.
• 07 of 11. Black Mondo Grass.
• 08 of 11. Creeping Phlox.
• 09 of 11. Interrupted Fern.
• 10 of 11. Rockspray Cotoneaster.
• 11 of 11. Best Flowering Ground Covers.

Here’s what you can do to strengthen a hilly landscape:

• Grasses. Ornamental grasses like mondo, blue fescue, and yellow foxtail are ideal erosion fighters.
• Ground Covers and Shrubs. Sturdy ground covers and shrubs are a great way to deter foot traffic through an area (another contributor to soil erosion).
• Trees.

Plants such as English Ivy, Liriope, Vinca and Ajuga work very well on slopes but can invade nearby lawns. Contain these plants using barrier edging. Snip stray Ivy or Vinca stems. Also avoid planting shallow rooted trees on a slope.