Erosion Control 101: Prevention Supplies
Erosion control is the practice of preventing or managing soil loss caused by wind and water. In vineyards, erosion is more than a soil issue—it directly affects vine health, productivity, and environmental compliance.
Surface runoff is one of the primary ways fertilizers, sediment, and pesticide residues leave vineyard sites. Over time, erosion not only degrades soil quality but can significantly reduce vine performance and yield. Implementing effective erosion control strategies is essential for both short-term protection and long-term vineyard sustainability.
When to Install Erosion Control Strategies
The most effective erosion control begins before vines are ever planted.
Several factors influence erosion risk, including:
Rainfall intensity and frequency
Soil type and structure
Slope length and steepness
Vineyard layout and row orientation
Management practices
For example, planting vineyard rows across the slope rather than up and down can reduce erosion by as much as 50%. During the planning and layout phase, consulting with a soil conservation professional or engineer can help identify problem areas and determine appropriate solutions.
Seasonal and Temporary Erosion Control Methods
Even with proper vineyard design, erosion control must be managed throughout the year—especially during periods of heavy rain.
Temporary erosion control methods commonly used in vineyards include:
Cover crops, planted in late summer or early fall, to absorb rainfall and protect soil through winter
Runoff diversion, directing excess water around vineyard blocks
Runoff reduction, slowing water movement so sediment can settle before leaving the site
Many of these measures are implemented immediately post-harvest, when vines are less sensitive to ground disturbance.
Common Vineyard Erosion Control Supplies
Straw Wattles
Straw wattles are one of the most widely used erosion control products in Napa Valley and other vineyard regions.
Straw wattles are:
Cylindrical tubes filled with compressed straw
Installed along contours or at the base of slopes
Designed to slow runoff, retain sediment, and reduce soil loss
In addition to erosion control, wattles can create temporary ponding that allows sediment and seed to settle, improving soil conditions downstream.
At A&J Vineyard Supply, our straw wattles are:
Filled with certified noxious weed-free rice straw
Wrapped in biodegradable, photodegradable burlap
Standard size: 9” diameter x 25’ length
Approximate weight: 40 lbs per wattle
Functional lifespan: 18–24 months
Wattles are sold individually or by the pallet (12 per pallet).
Wattle Stakes
Wooden stakes are used to secure straw wattles in place and prevent displacement during storm events.
Typical wattle stakes:
Made from fir, redwood, cedar, or pine
Cut to 1” x 1” x 18”
One pointed end and one flat end
Sold in bundles of 50
Approximate weight: 0.3 lbs per stake
Straw wattles and stakes are generally stocked at A&J Vineyard Supply from late July through November.
Straw Bales
Straw bales provide another effective method for slowing water flow during heavy rain events.
Available by full-load delivery:
256 bales per load
Rice or wheat straw options
Can be blown or hand-distributed across vineyard floors
When placed in row middles, straw bales help reduce raindrop impact, slow runoff, and conserve soil moisture—acting as a temporary cover crop.
Additional Erosion Control Products
Other erosion control materials are available by special order, including:
Silt fence
Jute netting
Coconut blankets
These products are typically used in higher-risk areas or where regulatory requirements apply.
How A&J Vineyard Supply Can Help
At A&J Vineyard Supply, we provide proven erosion control materials designed specifically for vineyard conditions. Our team can help you select the right combination of supplies based on slope, soil type, and seasonal needs.
Contact us today or call 707-963-5354 to place an order or discuss erosion control options for your vineyard.
