There are many different ways to halt land erosion. One of the most cost efficient solutions to do this is with 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 handled.

Turf Reinforcement Mats (TRM) is another term that erosion control mats are called. But no matter what they are called, their sole purpose is to secure the soil in place so some type of vegetation can create a stong root sytem.

The main advantage 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 controlling erosion and stabilizing the soil that they cover. This is an effective means of protecting the soil during and after any surface soil alteration occurs due to construction or rain. The mats have also shown to help stimulate vegetation growth, retain water, protect the soil against harsh elements like wind, and discourage the spread and growth of weeds and other unwanted vegetation. The matting material also offers protection for the soil from downpours of rain impact and runoff from surrounding landscape.

The erosion control mat can be stabilized in a couple of ways. The matting material can be punched where a small section of the mat is driven below the soil surface. Biodegradable spikes can also 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.