Contour grass strips: A laboratory simulation of their role in erosion control using live grasses

The effectiveness of contour grass strips in controlling erosion was studied in a laboratory experiment involving two grass treatments (Festuca ovina and Poa pratensis) and a bare soil control, five slopes (5, 7, 9, 11 and 13 degrees) and two discharge types (runoff only and rainfall-runoff combined) with two replications. Significant differences were observed between the two grass species with Festuca ovina giving the greater reduction in soil loss. This is explained by the greater root density and the interwoven nature of the stems and leaves.