What are live fascines used for in erosion control?

Live fascines are primarily used for stabilizing slopes and preventing erosion. They consist of bundles of live branches or shoots that are laid in a trench or on a slope, with the primary goal of promoting root establishment. As these plants root into the soil, they create a network that helps to bind the soil together, thereby enhancing its stability and reducing the risk of erosion from water flow or wind.

This vegetative approach not only provides structural support but also encourages the establishment of a more robust ecosystem, as the growing plants can contribute to soil health and biodiversity. The intertwining roots of the live fascines create a natural barrier that effectively decreases the flow of water, thus mitigating soil displacement.

Other options, while relevant in broader contexts, do not capture the primary function of live fascines. For instance, while they may indirectly influence channeling water flow or drainage through the establishment of vegetation, their main role is not to facilitate water movement but to stabilize the soil. Similarly, the improvement of soil fertility, while a possible secondary benefit of increased vegetative cover, is not the primary intention of using live fascines in erosion control strategies.