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 29th 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
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