Revegetating Challenging Soils

Achieving successful revegetation in challenging soils is a frequent hurdle we face at our worksites, regardless of location and weather. It can be a significant obstacle to closing projects timely. A multitude of factors come into play in creating healthy soils and successful vegetation densities. We face this challenge, whether our project is municipal, mine reclamation, commercial, highway, or landscaping.

Paying more attention to soil health through the technological use of Biotic Soil Amendments (BSA's) can accelerate and improve the results of our vegetation efforts. Consequently, helping to ensure timely permit closure, hopefully, even earlier than anticipated. A different and innovative approach becomes relevant when we seek to provide a support system for plants in less than ideal soil conditions. Additionally, revegetation and erosion control are two different concepts, although they should work together according to site requirements and design to ensure success.

The Biotic Soil Amendment (BSA) category has improved initial vegetation establishment, considerably increased success, and long-term vegetative sustainability. The importance of knowing the differences between healthy soil as opposed to technically "dead" soil is an aspect often overlooked. Sometimes we may have enough organic matter and good soil structure, but it may lack adequate microbial life. As a consequence of healthy soil, we will see how establishing the nutrient cycle is vital to perpetuating our vegetation while reducing come-back fixes. What is most necessary for any project is minimizing the risks of establishment and maximizing our chances of success.

Tests conducted in projects installed over a decade ago using BSA technology have shown a sustained increase in soil life and soil diversity. Results of up to eleven times pre-installation levels illustrate the long-term efficiency of these products. The presentation will analyze how soil health prioritization has significantly influenced different projects with varied geographic and climatic conditions.