Erosion is the breaking away and movement of soil or rock fragments by water, wind, ice, or gravity.
Once the soil or rock is detached it becomes known as sediment. The sediment can move by wind or, most commonly, water onto adjoining land or into our streams and rivers. This movement into rivers and streams is a significant source of water pollution. If erosion is controlled, sediment does not travel. Therefore, by controlling erosion we can greatly improve the quality of our water.