Ozona, Texas
Tres Hermanos Ranch
Contour Windrows.
Contour windrows constructed from slash material have a multitude of benefits. The linear obstruction intercepts and slows down surface runoff that would otherwise travel downslope with erosive velocities, leaving the site without absorbing into the soil.
Rainwater Wildlife guzzler.
Installed at a remote location on the ranch for use by wildlife. The 90 square foot roof will capture 55 gallons of rainwater for every inch of rainfall and fill the 500 gallon storage tank for drier times.
Selective Thinning.
Selective thinning of juniper and mesquite brush was conducted to achieve canopy densities around 40%. The resulting slash material was purposefully utilized to create contour windrows and beaver dam structures, with the aim of enhancing infiltration and minimizing erosion. The low level of site disturbance is expected to facilitate swift recovery of the plant community and provide immediate benefits for wildlife.
Beaver Dam Structures
Six separate beaver dam structures were constructed along a drainage channel that collects and conveys surface runoff down the slope. Multiple headcuts and bare soil were observed and give evidence of erosive flows. Collectively, the beaver dams will slow down runoff, collect and deposit sediment, protect bare soils, recruit new vegetation, and ultimately disburse water away from the channel for greater infiltration and deposition.
Pre-Project Drone Aerial Image
Post-Project Drone Aerial Image
Selective Thinning.
Contour Windrows.
