What is it?

A stabilization technique using rootwads to divert erosional stream velocities away from an eroding streambank. Rootwads are also used along streambanks to collect sediment to encourage bank formation and stabilization and these structures provide excellent fish habitat.

Conservation Benefits

• Collects excessive sediment and encourages bank stabilization and formation
• Protects eroding stream banks
• Provides fish and macroinvetebrate and instream habitat

What does it include?

Rootwads are placed along the edge of the bank, anchored to the bank, or part of the bank can be excavated to insert the log end of the rootwad to secure it in place. If the rootwad is being used to slow or prevent bank erosion, rootwads should intercept high stream flow velocities and reroute velocities away from the bank. Rootwads can be harvested from many different local trees and shrubs.