Erosion control with rock bags

North West Local Land Services Extension officer Craig Pullman invited Landcare Coordinators to view the application of erosion control Rockbags at a property west of Barraba on 29^th May 2025.

These flexible geotextile bags filled with rocks, are increasingly used for creek erosion control.  They are environmentally friendly, being made from non-toxic, recycled plastic, and are permeable to water and suitable for fish and wildlife habitats. 

The site was a narrow creek bed with a high eroded bank requiring stabilisation.  The goal of the work was to slow the water energy and prevent further erosion of the site.

The 2 ton rockbags were filled on site by the owner and then placed down into the creek using a CX30 Case excavator and were stacked 4 high in a layered pattern.  Geofabric was used at the back of each layer to further prevent soil wash.

The day proceeded slowly as it was a “first time” experience for all present, but it was obvious this process would be time and cost effective.

Nicola Chirlian

Liverpool Plains & Gunnedah Landcare Coordinator