Challenge:

Immediately stabilize channels, driplines, and spillways without using machinery that could damage the existing solar panels on site.

Solution:

Apply InstaTurf ShearForce10 along panel driplines, channels and emergency spillways to instantly and permanently reinforce soils and vegetation in high flow applications at a fraction of the cost of concrete block mats.

InstaTurf Benefits:

• Provides instant rock-like erosion protection.
• Requires no heavy equipment to install.
• Offers easier-to-maintain protection at half the cost of rip rap and concrete block mats.
• Promotes and permanently reinforces natural vegetation.
• Instant grass-like appearance.
• Reduces dust generation.

Background

Operations began at the Pecan and Gutenberg solar farms in Roanoke Rapids in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The operational solar panels in both locations are positioned next to and above channels, driplines and spillways.

Project Scope

Nansemond Contractors of Suffolk, Virginia were tasked with maintaining the site by preventing erosion and sediment runoff using concrete block mats. Nansemond Contractors knew this method presented a few issues from prior experience. Primarily, installing concrete blocks requires machinery which would be tough to maneuver between and under operational solar panels without damaging them. Nansemond Contractors worked with the InstaTurf distributor in North Carolina, ACF Environmental—now Ferguson Waterworks—because of their knowledge, product offering and on-site support.

Method

Nansemond Contractors applied InstaTurf ShearForce10 and single-net straw matting to channels and spillways. ShearForce10 slows water flow and holds soil and seeds in place to protect root masses from being washed away as they develop and after they become established.