Patent Publication Number: US-6910835-B2

Title: Modular fiber log erosion and sediment control barrier

Description:
This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 10/144,466 filed May 13, 2002, U.S. Pat. No. 6,709,202 which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/805,394, filed Mar. 13, 2001, U.S. Pat. No. 6,547,493 which are incorporated herein by reference. The present invention generally relates to an erosion and sediment control barrier, and more specifically relates to a modular erosion and sediment control barrier composed of coupler fiber logs particularly suited for being stored and/or transported and a method for providing and installing an erosion control barrier. 

   BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a circular coupler, a first embodiment of the coupler fiber logs of the present invention. 
     FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a fiber-ball plug, a first embodiment of the plugs of the present invention. 
     FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a pin plug, a second embodiment of the plugs of the present invention. 
     FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a disc plug, a third embodiment of the plugs of the present invention. 
     FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a rectangular coupler, a second embodiment of the coupler fiber logs of the present invention. 
     FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a triangular coupler, a third embodiment of the coupler fiber logs of the present invention. 
     FIG. 7  is a perspective view showing the joining of two adjacent circular coupler fiber logs. 
     FIG. 8  is a schematic view of the machinery suitable for the manufacturing of coupler fiber logs. 
     FIG. 9  is a perspective view of an embodiment of an erosion and sediment control barrier of the present invention installed at a water&#39;s edge. 
     FIG. 10  is a side sectional view of a two-tiered erosion and sediment control barrier of the present invention installed at a water&#39;s edge. 
     FIG. 11  is a side sectional view of a terraced erosion and sediment control barrier of the present invention, installed at a water&#39;s edge. 
     FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a linear silt trapper, an embodiment of the erosion and sediment control barriers of the present invention, installed in front of a curb inlet. 
     FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a ring silt trapper, an embodiment of the erosion and sediment control barriers of the present invention, installed around a storm inlet. 
     FIG. 14  is a side sectional view of a prairelog, an embodiment of the slope stabilizer of the present invention, installed on a steep slope. 
     FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a plurality of circular couplers maintained on a pallet with straps. 
     FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a plurality of rectangular couplers maintained on a pallet with gravity. 
     FIG. 17  is a perspective view of a plurality of triangular couplers maintained on a pallet with a cover. 
     FIG. 18  is a schematic of a forklift engaging a combination comprising a plurality of coupler fiber logs secured to a surface of a pallet. 

   DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
   For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates are also included. 
   An aspect of the present invention is a coupler fiber log which can be used singly or in combination as an erosion and/or sediment barrier. The term “log”, hereinafter, describes an elongated object having greater lengths than cross-sectional widths. The coupler fiber log includes a quantity of fibrous filler held inside a casing, and further includes means to join an adjacent coupler fiber log in an end-to-end orientation. The coupler fiber logs can be formed to any shape and size to accommodate the needs of an application. Commonly, the coupler fiber logs have circular, rectangular or triangular cross sections. However, it is contemplated that the coupler fiber logs may be formed into any shape. In selected embodiments, plant wells or other means are provided to promote plant growth within the coupler fiber logs. 
   Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding components throughout the several views.  FIG. 1  shows a circular coupler fiber log or circular coupler  20 , a first embodiment of the coupler fiber log of the present invention. The term “circular”, hereinafter, describes all planar shapes that are approximately round or partially round. Circular coupler  20  has a circular cross section and a length extends therefrom. Circular coupler fiber log  20  includes a pack of fibrous filler  21  held inside a casing  22  by a plug  23 . The pack of fibrous filler or filler pack  21  includes a first end  24  and a second end  25 . Preferred filler pack  21  and related filler packs have a maximum cross-sectional diameter or thickness of from about 6 to about 20 inches. Casing  22  includes an extended section or net extension  26 , which extends beyond plug  23  and has a cinch cord  27  weaving around its end. When circular coupler  20  is being stored or transported, net extension  26  peels over and folds around, the exterior of circular coupler  20 , proximal to second end  25 . On the exterior of circular coupler  20 , proximal to first end  24 , a plurality of S-hooks  28  are provided. Also on the exterior of circular coupler  20 , a series of plant wells  29  are provided. 
   Casing  22  holds the quantity of loose fiber forming the pack of fibrous filler or filler pack  21 . Preferably, casing  22  allows fluid communication between filler pack  21  and the outside environment. It is contemplated that casing  22  is constructed of a porous or perforated material, or is formed with an open weave. In this illustrated embodiment, casing  22  is formed as a tubular mesh netting  30 . Tubular mesh netting or net  30  has a length, grid-like openings  31  along its length, an interior chamber  32 , a closed end  33 , and an opened end  34 . The total length of net  30  is defined by the combined lengths of filler pack  21 , plug  23  and net extension  26 . Preferably, net extension  26  is approximately three quarter to one time (¾ to 1) the prescribed diameter of circular coupler fiber log  20 . 
   Grid-like openings  31  of net  30  provide the path for fluid communication between filler pack  21  retained inside casing  22  with the outside environment. Grid-like openings  31  vary in size and shape, but are generally rectangular and sufficiently small enabling the retention of the loose fibers of filler pack  21 . In one embodiment, one side of grid-like opening  31  measures less than about two and a half (2½) inches. In another embodiment, one side of grid-like opening  31  measures about one and a half (1½) inches. 
   Net  30  is constructed from a tubular netting material. Such tubular netting materials are commercially available in roll form. A predetermined length is cut from such a roll and tied at one end with a cord  35  forming net  30  with a length, an interior chamber  32 , a closed end  33  and an open end  34 . However, it is contemplated that net  30  may be constructed individually and has an integrally formed closed end  33 . The methods of constructing a tubular netting material are well known in the art. The tubular netting material may be formed by knotting at grid intersections to define the grid openings or formed by inter-braiding together strands of ropes or twines at the intersection of the openings, so that the openings are formed free of knots. It is understood that other methods of forming an open weave net may be used. 
   It is preferred that net  30  is constructed of a durable material, either natural or synthetic fibers, which can withstand the abrasive forces of the application site environments. In the illustrated embodiment, net  30  is constructed of extruded strands of polypropylene fibers. However, other synthetic materials, e.g., polypropylene and nylon, having adequate strength and durability may also be used. Cord  35 , used for tying close net  30 , may be made of any material, but are generally made of synthetic polymers like nylon and polypropylene. In applications where natural fibers are preferred, net  30  may be constructed from ropes or twine made of natural fibers such as jute, hemp, sisal, sea grass or coir. For such a natural application, cord  35  would be made of a natural fiber, e.g., jute, sisal, hemp, sea grass and coir. 
   The loose fibers used to pack circular coupler  20  are generally slow decaying natural fibers. Coir fiber being one of the slowest decaying natural fibers is a preferred choice of filler material. Coir fibers are graded by the length of the fibers, and are commercially available in bristle (long), mattress (medium) and omat (short) grades. Mattress grade coir fibers are preferably used. It is understood, however, that the other grades of coir fibers may also be used. It is further understood that other slow decaying natural or synthetic fibers such as for example sea grass may also be used without deviating from the scope and spirit of the present invention. 
   Plug  23  is provided for blocking open end  34  of casing  22  and for bridging the gap between the ends of two joined coupler fiber logs.  FIG. 2  shows a first embodiment of plug  23 , namely, a fiber-ball plug  36 . Fiber-ball plug  36  is a ball of fibrous filler  37  held inside a net  38 . Preferably, the same fibrous filler and casing material used to form circular coupler  20  are used to construct fiber ball plug  36 . Fiber-ball plug  36  is packed to a sufficient stiffness adequate to prevent the loose fibers of filler pack  21  from escaping out of open end  34 . 
     FIG. 3  shows a second embodiment of plug  23 , namely a pin plug  40 . Pin plug  40  includes a disk portion  41  and a stem portion  42 . Disk portion  41  adapts to prevent passage block of the filler pack  21 , and includes a diameter similar to that of circular coupler  20  for which pin plug  40  is intended to be placed, and a thickness between approximately 3 to 5 inches. Disk portion  41  further includes outside surface  43  and inside surface  44 . Both surfaces  43  and  44  are preferably concave. When installed, outside surface  43  orients towards open end  34  of casing  22  while inside surface  44  faces filler pack  21 . Stem portion  42  extends from second surface  44  of disk portion  41 . Stem portion  42  adapted to anchor into fibrous filler pack  21  is cylindrical. Preferably, pin plug  40  is made of a material which has similar aging characteristics as filler pack  21 . In one embodiment, pin plug  40  is made from a slow decaying wood. In another embodiment, pin plug  40  is made of fibers which are bonded together with latex. 
     FIG. 4  depicts a third embodiment of plug  23 , particularly identified as disc plug  47 . Disc plug  47  is shaped like a donut and having a diameter, a thickness, an inside face  48  and an outside face  49  and a hole  50 , extending between faces  48  and  49 . The diameter of disc plug  47  is approximately the same as that of circular coupler  20  in which disc plug  47  is intended to be placed and the thickness is approximately 3 to 5 inches. Both faces  48  and  49  of disc plug  47  are preferably concave adapted to complement the shape of the ends of circular couple fiber logs  20 . When installed, inside face  48  orients toward filler pack  21 , while outside face  49  orients towards open end  34  of casing  22 . Hole  50  is provided to enhance fluid communication and extends between inside face  48  and outside face  49 . While a single hole is included in the illustrated embodiment, other configurations of perforations may be included instead. Preferably, disc plug  47  is made of a material that is flexible and compressible. In one embodiment, disc plug  47  is formed of latex. In the illustrated embodiment, disc plug  47  is made of latex bonded fibers. The adequate amount of fiber included is adequate to increase the stiffness of disc plug  47 , but not to compromise its compressibility and flexibility. Preferably, the fiber dispersed in the latex is the same fiber used to pack circular coupler fiber logs  20 . However, any non-reacting fibers may be used. 
   S-hooks  28  are provided to couple two adjacent circular couplers  20  together, and are attached to the exterior of net  30  proximal to first end  24  of circular coupler  20 . S-hooks  28  may be of any dimension which are capable of joining the cinch cord  27  of a first circular coupler  20  to net  30  of an adjacent circular coupler  20 . In the illustrated embodiment, S-hooks  28  are approximately one inch in length. In addition, S-hooks  28  are preferably made of stainless steel. However, materials which have the requisite strength and resistance to the environmental agents may also be used. 
   Cinch cord  27  weaves around open end  34  of casing  22  and is for joining or connecting two adjacent circular couplers  20 . Cinch cord  27  is formed of a durable material, for example, nylon or polypropylene. In the illustrated example, the cinch cord  27  is formed of nylon. In addition, cinch cord  27  may be of any diameter having the strength of holding two circular couplers  20  together. In one embodiment, for coupling two 16-inch diameter circular couplers  20 , cinch cord  27  is 0.125 inch in diameter. 
   Plant wells  29  are cavities formed into the sides of circular coupler fiber logs  20  and are cut adequately deep for the placement of seeds or seedlings and plant growth medium. In the illustrated embodiment, plant wells  29  are approximately 2 inches in diameter and 4 inches deep. Plant wells  29  are placed in two rows at the top surface along the length of circular coupler  20 . The two rows are placed, when viewing from a cross section of circular coupler  20 , at approximately the 2 o&#39;clock and 10 o&#39;clock positions. In addition, consecutive plant wells  29 , measuring along the length of circular coupler  20 , are about six inches apart. 
   In general, plant wells are provided in coupler fiber logs which are intended for permanent placement and at site where water is available. It is contemplated that, with the right encouragement, vegetation/plants grow through the coupler fiber logs and their roots anchor into the underlying sediment/soil. It is further contemplated that the anchoring plant roots hold the underlying soil in place, thus, providing added stabilization against further erosion. While plant wells  29  are contemplated as a means to promote plant growth, other plant growth promoting methods are also contemplated. In one embodiment of the present invention, the coupler fiber logs are incorporated with plant seeds and a quantity of plant growth promoting medium (plant food or fertilizer). It is contemplated that under favorable conditions, the incorporated seeds germinate and the plant growth promoting medium provide the necessary nutrient for the roots of the newly germinated plants to grow through the coupler fiber logs and anchor into the underlying sediment/soil. It is further contemplated to start germination of the incorporated seeds prior to delivery of coupler fiber logs to the final installation site, thusly shortening the time required for plants to take root in the underlying sediment/soil. 
   Circular couplers  20  can be packed to any length prescribed by an application. For weight and maneuverability considerations, circular couplers  20  are generally packed to less than 20 feet in length. In one embodiment, circular couplers  20  are packed to less than about 8 feet in length or approximately 7-½ feet long. This length allows circular couplers  20  to fit on a conventional pallet for transporting on a conventional semi-trailer or other vehicle suitable for storing or for transporting the combination of a plurality of coupler fiber logs positioned on a surface of a pallet. Similarly, circular couplers  20  can be packed to any diameter suitable for specific applications. In the various embodiments of the present invention, circular couplers  20  are packed to approximately 6, 8, 12, 16, and 20 inches in diameter. 
   Circular couplers  20  can be packed to a range of fiber densities to suit the demand of the application sites. Generally, a denser coupler fiber log is desirable at locations where the area soils are subjected to greater erosive forces, and at locations where greater longevity and durability are required. A lighter coupler fiber log is adequate for areas where the soils are subjected to lesser erosion forces, and at locations where longevity and durability are a lesser issue. In one embodiment, for use as an erosion and sediment control barrier along the bank of a swift river, circular coupler fiber logs  20  are packed to a packing density of nine (9) pounds per cubic foot. In another embodiment, for use in the wetlands of a quiet river channel, circular coupler fiber logs  20  are packed to a packing density of five (5) pounds per cubic foot. 
     FIG. 5  shows a rectangular coupler fiber log or rectangular coupler  60 , a second embodiment of the coupler fiber log of the present invention. The term “rectangular”, hereinafter, describes all four-sided polygonal shapes. These shapes range from a true square to a quadrilateral having four unequal sides and four unequal angles. Rectangular couplers  60  have the added advantage that they are easily stacked to form a terrace or a retaining wall. 
   Rectangular coupler fiber log  60  shares many features of circular coupler  20  which have been described previously. Rectangular coupler  60  has a rectangular cross section and a length extends therefrom. The thickness of the cross section of rectangular coupler  60  corresponds to the diameter of circular coupler  20 . While a cross sectional shape close to a true rectangle is preferred, any four-sided polygonal shapes are within the scope of the present invention. Rectangular coupler fiber log  60  includes a pack of fibrous filler  61  held inside a casing  62  by a plug  63 . Rectangular coupler fiber log  60  further includes a first end  64  and a second end  65 . Casing  62  is similarly constructed as casing  22  of circular coupler  20 . Casting  62  also includes an extended section or net extension  66  which extends beyond plug  63 , and having a cinch cord  67  weaves around its end. During storage and transportation, net extension  66  peels over and folds around second end  65 . Plug  63  is shaped to compliment the cross section of rectangular coupler  60 , but is otherwise constructed similar to plug  23  of circular coupler fiber log  20 . On the exterior of rectangular coupler  60 , proximal to first end  64 , a plurality of S-hooks  68  are provided. Also on the exterior of circular coupler  60 , series of plant wells  69  are provided. Plant wells  69  are formed in a manner similar to plant wells  29  of circular coupler  20 . 
     FIG. 6  shows a triangular coupler fiber log or triangular coupler  70 , a third embodiment of the coupler fiber log of the present invention. The term “triangular”, hereinafter, describes all the shapes of a three-sided polygon. Generally, triangular coupler  70  is more stable against movement because of its wider base relative to its mass. It is contemplated that triangular coupler  70  has applications as erosion and sediment barrier on steep slopes. 
   Triangular coupler  70  shares many of the features of circular coupler  20  which have been described previously. Triangular coupler  70  has a triangular cross section and a length extends therefrom and includes a pack of fibrous filler  71  held inside a casing  72  by a plug  73 . The thickness of the cross section of triangular coupler  70  corresponds to the diameter of circular coupler  20 . The pack of fibrous filler or filler pack  71  includes a first end  74  and a second end  75 . Casing  72  is similarly constructed as casing  22  of circular coupler  20 . Casing  72  includes an extended section or net extension  76  which extends beyond plug  73  and having a cinch cord  77  weaves around its end. During storage and transportation, net extension  76  peels over and folds around second end  75 . Plug  73  is shaped to compliment the cross section of triangular coupler fiber log  70 , and otherwise is constructed similar to plug  23  of circular coupler fiber log  20 . On the exterior of triangular coupler  70 , proximal to first end  74 , a plurality of S-hooks  78  are provided. Also on the exterior of triangular coupler  70 , series of plant wells  79  are provided. Plant wells  79  are similar to plant wells  29  of circular coupler  20 . 
   The coupler fiber logs are preferably stored and transported as individual units, uncoupled. After delivery to the installation site, the individual coupler fiber logs are joined or connected end-to-end to produce an linear erosion and sediment control barrier.  FIG. 7  depicts the method of joining two circular coupler fiber logs  20 . While circular couplers  20  are used in the illustration, it is understood that rectangular couplers  60  and triangular couplers  70  are similarly coupled to form linear erosion and sediment control barriers. As shown in  FIG. 7 , the two circular coupler  20  to be joined are brought together in an end to end orientation having second end  25  of the first circular coupler  20  (at the left hand side) facing first end  24  of the second circular coupler  20  (at the right hand side). The net extension  26  of the first circular couple  20  is unfolded from its storage position and is extending out. A quantity of loose fiber  80  is first packed around plug  23  to fill the gaps between the shoulder of plug  23  and net extension  26 . First end  24  of the second circular coupler  20  is then received inside net extension  26  of the first circular coupler. Cinch cord  27  of the first circular coupler  20  is hooked onto the plurality of S-hooks placed around first end  24  of the second circular coupler  20 . The second circular coupler  20  is then pulled towards the first circular coupler  20 , by pulling on cinch cord  27  until the second circular coupler  20  engages loose fibers  80  and plug  23 . Thusly situated, net extension  26  of the first circular coupler  20  overlaps casing  22  of the second circular coupler  20 . Cinch cord  27  is pulled taut and the ends of cinch cord  27  secured. The two adjacent circular couplers  20  are thus joined together, preferably with end  24  butted against loose fiber  80  and/or end  25 . After securing the first two circular couplers  20  together, the procedure may be repeated to add a third and a fourth, etc. circular couplers  20  until a erosion and sediment control barrier of a desirable length is formed. 
   While the above method of securing the coupler fiber logs together are particularly illustrated, those of ordinary skill in this art should appreciate that one may use many conventional methods to join together the net extension of one coupler fiber log to the body of the second coupler fiber log. For example, one could use lacing, staples, wire, plastic ties, like those that are commonly used to hold electrical wires together, adhesive, adhesive tape, non-adhesive tape, stove clamps like those to connect a household clothes dryer to ductwork, a belt tied around the over-lapping casings, cable laced through or tied around the over-lapping casings, or any other method commonly known to be used to join or mend netting or join tubular structures end-to-end. 
   Coupler fiber logs of different dimensions and shapes may be manufactured by conventional machinery illustrated in  FIG. 8  that generally includes a tiller  81 , a hopper  82 , a pusher  83 , and a stent tube  84 . The differently shaped coupler fiber logs are constructed through the use of the appropriate shaped pushers  83  and stent tubes  84 . Referring now to  FIG. 8  which shows a schematic drawing for the manufacturing of a circular coupler  20 . Circular coupler  20  is formed by packing a quantity of loose coir fibers  85  into a casing  20 . Coir fibers  85  can be purchased commercially in bales of approximately 360 pounds each. Generally, the baled fibers have not been pre-processed and much of their natural layering remains. So being, the inventors have found that a more consistent circular coupler  20  can be produced by first fluffing the coir fibers  85 . Thus, after un-baling, the coir fibers  85  are placed in tiller  81  where the fibers are disrupted and separated. The fluffed-up coir fibers  85  are then delivered to hopper  82  via a conveyer belt  86 . A cylindrical pusher  83 , slides back and forth horizontally immediately below hopper  82  and pushes loose coir fibers  85  through a cylindrical stent tube  84  and into an awaiting casing  22 . Casing  22  is wrapped around and frictionally held to the outside of stent tube  84  by a chain belt  87 . Initially, casing  22  is positioned such that closed end  33  of casing  22  abuts the exit of stent tube  84 . As the coir fibers  85  are fed into casing  22 , closed end  33  slides outward and causes the release of unfilled sections of casing  22  underneath chain belt  87 . 
   The rate of release of casing  22  determines the packing density of circular coupler fiber log  20 ; the slower casing  22  is released, the higher the packing density of the resultant coupler fiber log  20 . The frictional force applied by belt  87  onto casing  22  as casing  22  resides over stent tube  84  controls the rate of release of casing  22 . The amount of applied frictional force to effect a release rate is empirically determined. After a prescribed length of circular coupler fiber log  20  is reached, filler pack  21  formed by loose coir fibers  85  is capped with plug  23 . Casing  22  is then released from stent tube  83 , and net extension  26  peels over and folds around the newly formed circular coupler fiber log  20 . 
   The coupler fiber logs of the present invention have multiple applications as erosion and sediment control barriers, e.g., for buffing of flow and wave forces, sediment capture, re-vegetation and erosion control. The coupler fiber logs can be deployed singly or in combination with other coupler fiber logs, and be arranged in various configurations to suit the application and to accommodate the installation site environment. 
     FIG. 9  shows an erosion and sediment control barrier  90  formed by circular couplers  20  installed at a shoreline. While circular couplers  20  are used for this illustration, it is understood that other shaped coupler fiber logs may also be used. Erosion and sediment control barrier or barrier  90  dissipates and reduces the effect of the erosive forces produced by wave action and flowing water. Barrier  90  may be placed below, at or above the water&#39;s edge. Commonly, the erosion and sediment control barrier  90  is placed where the water extends up to about two-thirds the height of barrier  90 . 
   As illustrated, barrier  90  includes a plurality of circular couplers  20  coupled together and set into a shallow trench  91  and held by stakes  92  and ropes  93  that are wound between stakes  92  and over circular couplers  20 . Erosion control barrier  90  is generally assembled in situ by methods previously described. The dimension of trench  91  necessary for the placement of barrier  90  depends on the site geometry. In one embodiment for setting a barrier  90  composed of a 16-inch diameter circular couplers  20 , trench  91  is 4 inches deep and 10.5 inches wide. Anchor stakes  92  are typically placed in the front and in the back of barrier  90  at user-prescribed distances, usually about 1 to 2 feet apart on each side of barrier  90 . Stakes  92  preferably are made of hard wood, have about a 2 inches by 2 inches cross-section, are approximately 36 inches long, and are preferably notched at their upper end to receive rope  93 . With stakes  92  implanted in the sediment/soil  94 , ropes  93  are lashed to stakes  92  in a front-and-back rotation, similar to the process of lacing your shoes. For further security, the ends  95  of barrier  90  may be buried into the existing bank. Thusly secured, the land ward side behind barrier  90  is preferably back filled to ground level. In addition, rock riprap  96  or rock retainer basket may be placed on the water side in front of barrier  90  for added security. 
   While it is convenient and expedient to use stakes  92  and ropes  93  to secure barrier  90  to ground  94 , other securing methods may also be used. Barrier  90  may also be secured with rock, geotextiles, geogrid, earth anchors, and the likes according to the site conditions. While methods for placing and anchoring barrier  90  have been suggested, it is understood that the placement and anchoring of an erosion and sediment control barrier is site dependent and is well known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. For the convenience of the reader, however, additional details of the use and installation of coupler fiber logs can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,338,131; 5,425,597; 5,641,244; and 5,678,954 to Bestman, as well as, U.S. Pat. No. 5,951,202 to Brown, the disclosures of which are all specifically incorporated into this specification by reference. 
   In addition to relying on the physical mass of barrier  90  to control erosion, the illustrated embodiment contemplates using vegetation or plants  97  to stabilize the surface layer of sediment/soil  94 . The circular couplers  20  forming barrier  90  are provided with plant wells  29 . It is contemplated that the roots of plants  97  which grow down through plant wells  29  to the underlying soil and hold the underlying soil in place. 
   While only one linear erosion barrier  90  is shown installed in  FIG. 9 , it is understood that multiple linear erosion control barriers  90  may be installed in parallel or in other configurations where situation demands.  FIG. 10  shows a two-tiered barrier  100  having two rows of joined circular coupler  20  installed along the water edge  98 . The two rows of joined circular couplers  20  are placed parallel to each other and secured by lacing  101 . The two-tiered barrier  100  is anchored to the soil/sediment  94  with stakes  92  and rope  93  as described for barrier  90  above. The circular coupler  20  composing two-tiered barrier  100  are provided with plant wells to promote the growing of plants  97  through circular couplers  20 . 
     FIG. 11  shows a erosion and sediment control terrace  110  which provides protection to shorelines. Terrace  110  includes multiple rows of rectangular couplers  60  stacked on each other and on a precut sub-grade soil terrace  111 . Rectangular couplers are held by stakes  92  anchored into the soil terrace  111  and are further held by ropes  93  which wind around rectangular couplers  90  and tie to stakes  92 . In addition to relying on the physical mass of rectangular coupler  60  to control erosion, the illustrated embodiment further contemplates the use of vegetation or plants  97  to stabilize the underlying soil. 
   The coupler fiber logs may also be used to entrap and capture sediment and is useful in many locations and situations where a sediment barrier needs to be constructed quickly.  FIG. 12  shows a linear silt-trapper  120  placed in front of a curb side inlet  121 . Silt-trapper  120  allows water to seep through and drain to inlet  121  but traps the silt and sediment behind. In this embodiment, silt-trapper  120  is constructed of circular couplers  20  joined together to form a linear barrier of sufficient length. It is understood other geometric shaped coupler fiber logs may also be used. Silt-trapper  120  is held between pairs of stakes  122  anchored into the sediment/soil or ground  123  and further held by ropes  124  which are wound between each pair of stakes over circular couplers  20 . Silt trapper  120  is formed by circular couplers  20  which are 12 inches in diameter. However, it is understood that the type of circular coupler fiber logs  20  required is determined by the application site environment. Anchor stakes  122  are typically placed in the front and in the back of silt-trapper  120  at user-prescribed distances, usually about 1 to 2 feet apart on each side of silt-trapper  120 . Stakes  122  preferably are made of hard wood, have about a 1.5 inches by 1.5 inches cross-section, are approximately 36 inches long, and are preferably notched at their upper ends to receive ropes  124 . Preferably, ropes  124  are made of nylon and are approximately 0.25 inch in diameter. 
   Sediment barriers may be constructed to various geometric configuration in addition to the linear silt-trapper  120  described above.  FIG. 13  shows a ring silt-trapper  130  for the protection of a storm inlet  131 . Ring silt-trapper  130  is constructed with circular couplers  20  coupled together to form a ring of the prescribed diameter. Similar to linear silt-trapper  120 , ring silt-trapper  130  is held between pairs of wooden stakes  122  anchored to ground  123  and secured with ropes  124  wound over ring silt-trapper  130 . 
   The coupler fiber logs of the present invention may also be used on dry slope for slope stabilization.  FIG. 14  shows a series of prairelog  140  installed on a 45° slope  143 . Prairelog  140  hinders the continuous slide of soil and sediments down such steep slopes, and hence reduces slope erosion. Prairelog  140  are typically placed across gradient of slope  143  in rows at user prescribed distances, usually about 3 feet apart. 
   Prairelog  140  is constructed of circular couplers  20 , either singly or joined, to form a linear barrier of sufficient length. While the use of circular couplers  20  is illustrated, it is understood other shaped coupler fiber logs, particularly triangular couplers  70 , may also be used. Prairelog  140  is held between pairs of stakes  142  anchored into slope  143  and further held by ropes  144  which are wound between each pair of stakes over prairelog  140 . Stakes  142  preferably are made of hard wood, have about 1 inch cross section, are approximately 24 inches long and are preferably notched at their upper ends to receive ropes  144 . Ropes  144  are preferably made of a strong, durable material, e.g. nylon, polypropylene. However, any other material may be used. 
     FIG. 15  shows an embodiment of the combination  150  of a plurality of circular coupler fiber logs  20  secured to a pallet  151  by strapping  152 . The strapping can be any kind of strip, cord, band or similar material capable of maintaining a plurality of circular couplers  20  in a stable position on the pallet  151  while the combination  150  is stationary or moving. Preferred strappings  152  include, but are not limited to bands of metal, bands or cords made from synthetics such as nylon or polypropylene and cords made from natural fibers such as hemp. Preferred coupler logs  20  utilized in the combination  150  are typically less than about 8 feet in length. 
     FIG. 16  shows an embodiment of the combination  160  of a plurality of rectangular coupler fiber logs  60  secured to the pallet  151  by gravity. Preferred coupler logs  60  are less than about 8 feet in length. 
     FIG. 17  shows an embodiment of the combination  170  of a plurality of triangular coupler fiber logs  70  secured and held in place on the pallet  151  by a cover  171 , the cover  171  secured by cords  172 . Preferred coupler logs  70  are less than about 8 feet in length. Preferred covers are made of nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyvinylchloride or other synthetic polymers. 
     FIG. 18  illustrates an embodiment of the method for transporting the combination  150  with a forklift  180  typical of methods used for local transporting the combination within a manufacturing or warehousing facility. Combinations comprising a plurality of coupler fiber logs and a pallet such as for example the combinations  150 ,  160  and  170  can be stored and/or moved as a unit and can be stacked more than at least three units high. Therefore storage space involved in warehousing the coupler fiber logs can be utilized more efficiently, the handling of individual fiber logs is reduced, and conventional equipment for loading, warehousing and transporting materials can be utilized. As a result, the cost of storing and transporting the combination comprising a pallet and a plurality of coupler fiber logs is reduced compared to storing or transporting individual coupler fiber logs in the conventional manner. In addition, because individual coupler fiber logs are handled less when storing and/or transporting the logs as part of a combination, such as for example the combination  150 ,  160 , or  170 , fewer ruptures of the coupler fiber logs result, thus reducing waste and further reducing costs. 
   Combinations comprising a plurality of coupler fiber logs and a pallet, wherein the coupler fiber logs have been positioned on a surface of the pallet can be readily transported from a first location to at least one subsequent location. A preferred method of transporting a combination, such as for example the combination  150 ,  160 , or  170 , comprises engaging the combination at the first location, moving the combination from the first location to the subsequent location, and disengaging the combination at the subsequent location. Engaging refers to the creation of a spatial relationship between the combination and a device capable of exerting a force upon the combination, such that upon the exertion of said force, the combination undergoes movement whereas disengagement refers to the undoing of the spatial relationship. In a preferred embodiment, the process of engaging involves placing a mobile lift, such as for example a fork lift, in a position to raise the combination from an initial resting position; moving involves transporting the combination to a subsequent location with or without raising and/or lowering the combination from an initial resting surface to a subsequent resting surface; and disengaging involves repositioning the fork lift separate from the combination. The subsequent location can be a stationary location such as for example a warehouse or on a vehicle suited for transporting the combination to a local or distant site. Suitable vehicles include, but are not limited to trucks, rail cars, aircraft and watercraft. 
   In order to promote a further appreciation and understanding of the present invention, the following specific Examples are provided to illustrate the specific examples of the novel combination and embodiments of methods for transporting and storing the illustrated embodiments of the combination. It will be understood that these examples are illustrative and not limiting in nature. 
   Example 1, which follows, describes the preparation of a combination. A pallet is positioned in a location suitable for loading one or more coupler fiber logs and for accessing the resulting combination with a device capable of transporting the combination. Coupler fiber logs are placed on the pallet by hand or with a suitable hoist or lift to form a first layer of logs positioned edge to edge on the pallet&#39;s surface. If desired, additional layers are similarly placed upon the first layer with the additional logs either parallel to the logs on the layer below or rotated 90°. The number of logs in the combination depends on the purpose for preparing the combination, the size of the individual logs, their ability to be secured on the pallet and the lifting and moving capabilities of the equipment used to lift or otherwise transport the combination. The combination contains its capacity of logs when the addition of an another log would prevent their being secured to the pallet, cause the combination to exceed the weight capacity of the pallet and/or the equipment utilized for transportation or otherwise interfere with the purpose of creating the combination. Combinations wherein the pallet is filled to less than capacity are contemplated, for example, when warehousing the end of a production run of a particular size log or when shipping an order requiring less than the pallet&#39;s capacity. 
   After the desired number of logs have been loaded upon a pallet, they are secured to the pallet&#39;s surface to prevent unwanted movement of the logs in relation to the pallet during transportation of the combination. Depending on the circumstances and the distance the combination must be transported, the logs can be secured to the pallet by strapping, attaching a covering or by gravity. Gravity is generally sufficient when the combination is transported for short distances such as for example from a manufacturing facility to a warehouse, particularly for combinations having less than their capacity of logs. A covering is generally sufficient for securing the logs to a pallet when the combination will be transported short distances or locally with a minimum amount of handling and is preferred, with or without additional strapping, when temporary protection from the elements is desired. Combinations wherein the logs are secured with strapping are more suited for transporting the combination over greater distances and with a greater amount of handling. 
   Example 2, which follows describes transporting the combination locally. For transporting the combination from a first resting position over short distances, particularly within a single facility, the combination can be engaged by contacting the pallet with a device capable of applying sufficient force to the pallet and the logs thereon to cause the combination to move to a second or subsequent position either in a vertical direction and/or across its resting surface. Upon attaining a desired location, the combination is disengaged from the device by breaking contact between the pallet and the device. The desired location can be a stationary surface or another surface capable of further movement such as for example on the surface of a caster dollie, a truck bed or on the mobile portion of a conveyor. Suitable devices for local transportation include, but are not limited to a mobile lift such as for example a fork lift, a mobile hoist, a pallet jack, or a crane or the combination of any of these devices with a caster dollie, a truck bed or a conveyor. The use of multiple devices for transportation generally involves multiple acts of transporting wherein the acts of engaging, moving and disengaging are repeated with the various devices utilized. Examples of local transportation include, but are not limited to: 1) the lifting of the combination with a mobile or stationary lift such as a fork lift or a crane; 2) the lowering of the combination with a mobile or stationary lift onto another surface such as a warehouse floor, atop another combination, a conveyor, a loading dock; and 3) the movement from a first resting surface to a second resting surface as in the movement of the combination from a warehouse floor to a truck bed with a fork lift or a pallet jack. 
   Example 3, which follows, describes transportation of the combination over distances beyond a production or warehouse facility. Transportation from a manufacturing facility or a warehouse facility to a customer or a product distribution site can utilize the highways, railways, waterways or airways and combinations thereof, employing conventional transportation equipment such as, for example, trucks; rail-cars; water crafts such a ships, boats, barges etc.; and aircraft such as airplanes and helicopters. The equipment and methods used for local transportation are typically used to transport and load the combination onto the conventional long-distance transportation equipment and to unload the combination upon arrival at a subsequent location. In addition, more than one of the above types of transportation are typically employed as for example combinations shipped by water-way, rail or air may need to be further transported by truck to the final destination. 
   The following examples are provided to illustrate how the combination can be loaded, transported, and unloaded utilizing combinations of convention equipment over a (a) highway, (b) railway, (c) waterway and/or (d) airway: 
   (a) Highway Transportation: The combination can be loaded onto a conveyer at a warehouse utilizing a crane, moved to a loading dock by the conveyor, transferred from the conveyor to a loading dock and then onto a truck bed with a pallet jack. After transporting the combination across the highway to an installation site, a crane is used to unload the combination at the installation site where the individual coupler fiber logs can be removed from a pallet by hand or with conventional equipment such as a crane and installed as described above. The trip from the warehouse to the installation site involved repeated acts of engaging, moving and disengaging until the combination was broken up at the installation site to accomplish installation of the logs to form an erosion control barrier. 
   (b) Railway Transportation: The combination can be moved from a loading dock onto a rail-car with a crane, the combination then transported by rail to a second location where a fork-lift is used to remove the combination from the rail-car and load it onto a truck-bed for delivery to it&#39;s distribution warehouse. As noted above, the transportation described involved several acts of engaging, moving and disengaging. 
   (c) Waterway Transportation: The combination can be moved from a loading dock onto a barge with two stationary cranes and a caster dollie. After being transported to a second location by barge, the combination can be picked up, removed from the barge by helicopter and transported to an isolated installation site where it is placed in an appropriate location for installation of an erosion control barrier. Again, transportation requires a series of acts of engaging, moving and disengaging and installation of the erosion control barrier is carried out as described above. 
   (d) Airway Transportation: The combination can be removed from a truck-bed with a forklift and loaded onto a cargo plane. The plane with its cargo can be flown to an airport at a second location near an installation site, unloaded with a pallet jack and placed on a truck-bed for the trip to the installation site. As in each of the previous examples, transportation of the combination requires a series of acts of engaging, moving and disengaging the combination. 
   The examples provided are illustrative and not intended to be limiting. The appropriate series of acts of engaging, moving and disengaging the combination and the most appropriate equipment available can readily be selected by one skilled in the art to effectively carry out the movement of the combination necessary to comply with the day-to-day commercial requirements related to warehousing and delivering coupler fiber logs economically and without damage to the product. 
   The methods provided for transporting the combination comprising a plurality of coupler fiber logs positioned on the surface of a pallet can be utilized to provide and install an erosion control barrier. The method of providing and installing an erosion control barrier comprises the steps of providing a pallet; placing a plurality of coupler fiber logs on the pallet, each coupler fiber logs having an end; transporting the pallet and coupler fiber logs to an installation site; removing at least two coupler fiber logs from the pallet; and step for joining said end of one coupler fiber log to the end of another coupler fiber log. 
   While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings, foregoing description and examples, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are described to be protected.