Revegetation is one of the most important parts of any building or construction activity where the plant cover has been disturbed. Vegetation that is suited to the location will be re-established, usually comprising local native plants. Revegetation will return a degraded area to a state that is either similar to or better than its previous condition, and serves important environmental, practical and aesthetic purposes.
But is revegetation really necessary for your area, or just an optional extra? Here’s how to know if your site needs revegetating.
It has been depleted of plant cover
If the plant cover for the area has been removed due to construction works or areas of heavy vehicle pressure, your site will need to be revegetated. In many cases, revegetation will not occur naturally, and will need to be specifically carried out to control erosion and return the site to a more natural state.
Re-establishment of vegetation cover is extremely important, not only to prevent erosion but to prevent the infestation of weeds. Once weeds get a hold, they can inhibit the establishment of desirable native species; therefore, it’s important to get the revegetation process happening as quickly as possible. Failure to do so will usually result in greater ongoing maintenance costs in weed control, as well as a poor visual perception of the site. Revegetation also has the effect of conserving and enhancing the biodiversity of the area.
It has experienced soil loss or active erosion
If your site has lost soil, whether as a result of building works or ongoing active erosion, it will require rehabilitation to stabilise the area, return the soil to the site and prevent further soil loss. Soil compaction and ongoing erosion problems can result from the removal of topsoil. Plant cover will absorb the impact of rain on the soil, reduce the volume and velocity of run-off, bind the soil with roots and protect the soil from wind and its erosive effects.
Revegetation is the best protection against erosion and soil loss, as the plants will anchor and stabilise the soil and prevent it from blowing or washing away. However, the factors which led to soil erosion will need to be dealt with as well, as rainfall, surface water flows, wind and site usage can all lead to ongoing erosion. Erosion control measures will need to be implemented as well as revegetation methods, to give the site the best chance of preventing further problems.
Sites with soil loss and erosion need to be revegetated as soon as possible, as erosion and soil loss will only increase if the site is left untreated for any length of time. Revegetation will help maintain the stability of the site, particularly with roadside projects such as batter slopes and road drains. All roadwork projects will need revegetating at their conclusion – it’s so important that it’s considered an integral part of the project.
It looks unsightly
Bare dirt and earthworks don’t look attractive or appealing. If your area looks bare and unsightly after the construction works have finished, it will benefit from revegetation. This will quickly convert the bare dirt to a much more attractive green vista. Of course, trees and shrubs will take longer to establish than grass and ground cover, but the long-term establishment of an aesthetic landscape is important. Revegetation is the quickest way to maintain and enhance the visual quality of the site, and to create a pleasant environment for ourselves and future generations.
If the site has been modified to such an extent that native species won’t be able to survive
Native wildlife species need a diverse and healthy habitat that provides them with food, water, shelter and nesting or breeding sites. If your site has been modified to such an extent that it can’t provide this for the local native species, then it needs to be revegetated. The establishment of local vegetation cover will create habitat that will support bird and animal species and allow them to establish and spread. Establishing a wildlife habitat in a degraded area, as well as wildlife corridors and links, is ecologically essential. Revegetation will create shade, shelter and foraging places for wildlife, and will enhance native plant communities.
If the site has salinity or waterlogging problems
Revegetation is extremely important on a site with waterlogging or salinity problems. Rising water tables can have serious implications for a site, and need to be addressed through vegetative practices. Strategically vegetating the site will alleviate the potential effects of waterlogging and achieve the best outcome in combating salinity.
To meet environmental objectives for the site
Many sites are required to meet certain environmental objectives, or government conditions of approval for the project. In such cases, revegetation is necessary, and is generally considered to be an integral part of roadwork or construction projects.
We can help you revegetate your site
If your site needs a dose of revegetation, we can help. NuGrow provides the most comprehensive bulk revegetation and landscaping solutions on the market. Our experienced revegetation and erosion control professionals ensure both environmental and financial benefits for our clients. Get in contact today to find out how we can help.