Hands-On Restoration: Learning Natural Solutions for Streambank Erosion
At the end of January, several of our team members joined Marin RCD for a streambank restoration project at Gallagher Ranch, a Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT) conservation easement protected farm. The ranch owners are dedicated to sustainable land management, and after the recent heavy rains, they noticed significant erosion on a streambank on Lagunitas Creek. After reaching out to Marin RCD, this presented a great opportunity to bring together technical staff to learn and implement low-cost, natural restoration methods.
Members of our team joined Marin RCD and MALT staff to harvest, bundle, and stake willows, assembling them into fascines and willow walls. Fascines are bundles of live willow branches placed along eroding streambanks to stabilize soil, reduce erosion, slow streamflow, and promote new plant growth. Willow walls are created by weaving live willow branches between stakes driven into the ground. As the branches take root and grow, they help hold the soil in place while also providing habitat benefits.
While the work can be time-intensive, it is low-cost and relies almost entirely on natural materials. These structures help prevent soil from washing into the creek and encourage willow growth. Once established, willows are extremely effective at preventing erosion due to their deep, stabilizing root systems. They also benefit the ecosystem by providing shade, cover, and a food source for salmonids. Insects that live on willow branches eventually fall into the creek, serving as an important food source for fish.
Overall, it was a great opportunity to engage in hands-on learning about practical restoration techniques we can share with our community while also building relationships with fellow natural resource leaders. Plus, everyone loves some sunshine!
Interested in learning more? Check out some great resources below:
