There are a variety of ways to stop land erosion. One of the most cost efficient methods to do this is by utilizing an erosion control mat. These mats come in rolls for easy transport. They are easy to install, too -- just unroll the mat, stake it in place, and your problem with erosion is solved.

Turf Reinforcement Mats (TRM) is another term that erosion control mats are called. Regardless of what they are called, their goal is to hold the soil in place to allow some type of vegetation can take root.

The main benefit these mats have over no covering at all or comparing it to loose mulch is that the erosion control mat has proven to be effective in reducing erosion and stabilizing the soil that they cover. This is an effective way to protect the soil during and after any surface soil alteration occurs because of construction or rain. The mats are also proven to help stimulate plant life, retain moisture, protect the soil against harsh elements like wind, and discourage the spread and growth of weeds and other unwanted vegetation. The matting material also provides protection for the soil from downpours of rain impact and runoff from surrounding landscape.

The erosion control mat can be anchored in a couple of ways. The matting material can be punched where a small section of the mat is driven below the soil surface. There are also biodegradable spikes that can be used to hold the matting material in place.

The mat material is made up of biodegradable material that can include mulch, straw, coconut fiber and wood chips. These will be held together with biodegradable netting or a form of tackifier, which is sticky substance.

Tackifiers can be of latex base or guar gum. They are a sticky substance that basically holds the loose erosion control mat material together until the desired vegetation develops a root system.