ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT This study demonstrates how vegetated riprap, which is the incorporation of live cuttings and growing media within conventional riprap along watercourses, is a reliable alternative. The initial design of vegetated riprap, implemented in 2006, showed good survival and growth, good propagation and full canopy closure over time, which enhance fish and wildlife habitat by providing shade, cover and input of small organic debris to watercourses. Excavation studies showed no riprap displacement and root systems binding the riprap together. Root tensile strength tests show that roots growing within the layer of placed riprap had a smaller diameter and higher tensile strength than roots growing under the substrate of placed riprap. Root diameter was found to be significantly higher below the riprap, providing additional soil cohesion and increasing bank erosion protection. A revised design was also developed to further enhance uniform root development and reduce the use of synthetic materials along watercourses.
