Bank erosion

Finally, there are a variety of less common methods like using sedimentology or tree age to calculate erosion rates by approximating historic locations of the river channel.

This process is dependent upon a number of factors including the internal strength of the soil (e.g. clay vs. sand), soil-water content, and vegetation.

Dense vegetation growing on the bank face can deflect flowing water and prevent fluvial erosion.

However, trees can also add significant weight to the tops of stream banks and may actually decrease stability.

However, land management patterns that change the hydrograph and/or vegetation cover can act to increase or decrease channel migration rates.

[9] A common natural method to reduce bank erosion is the re-introduction of native plant species in the area.

The expansive root systems of these plants provide support within the soil and prevents erosion due to rain runoff.