Bioengineered restoration of flood or high water damage to streams and lakes provides a more natural-looking solution than traditional rip rap or concrete structures. Bioengineering Techniques Homeowners who have streamside or lakeside property, contractors required to work in difficult environmental circumstances or professionals interested in natural restoration of landscapes will find useful bioengineering techniques. New methods of application and materials being developed will result in new and improved bioengineering design. Contour Wattling Figure 1. Preparation of wattling and installation procedure.
Installation starts at the bottom of the cut or fill and proceeds upslope.
Numbered sequence of operations is shown schematically. Trenches are excavated by hand to half the diameter of the bundles. Wattles are typically 8 to 10 inches in diameter and branches secured with twine. After the wattle is staked in place, the trench is backfilled until only the top of the bundle is exposed. Wattles can be used for hillslope restoration, road embankments, wide gullies, or slump areas.