Summary

Herron, C.L., Ruark, M.D., Minks, K.R.

A grade stabilization structure (GSS) is an on-farm conservation tool that can effectively decrease the amount of sediment and nutrient runoff entering nearby streams. Relatively inexpensive yet highly effective, GSSs improve water quality in highly erosive landscapes by reducing water velocity as it runs off land. In addition to requiring little maintenance, GSSs can reduce soil and nutrient loss from farm fields, including those on steep slopes, while supporting water quality in surrounding ecosystems