Evaluating erosion control measures for biorestoration between the time of soil reinstatement and vegetation establishment

A modified Universal Soil Loss Equation is used to evaluate the performance of erosion control measures along pipeline rights‐of‐way in Colombia and Georgia in a ten‐year return‐period storm occurring during the first year following pipeline installation. An erosion mat is the most effective way of reducing erosion until a sufficient vegetation cover has been established. On steep slopes and where climate restricts the rate of vegetation growth, it may be necessary to supplement the mat with diverter berms. Although the method cannot be validated in the study areas because of a lack of appropriate data, the results conform to local experience.