Types of Lake, Pond, and River Erosion

The three primary types of lake, pond, and river erosion are Sheet Flow Erosion, Rill Erosion, and Splash Erosion.  But erosion can also occur on horizontal areas such as landscaping, ditches, swales, berms, walls, and structures.  The difference is whether the eroded land is part of a diagonal slope or a horizontal plane.  Erosion in the landscape generally consists of berms and ditches losing their depth and consequently their efficacy.  This can be remedied by cleaning out the eroded material, re-grading the area while ensuring a proper pitch for correct water flow and drainage, and securing the top of the land with sod or an aggregate.

Above Picture: Part of a 300 foot swale that was re-graded and filed with #57 stone to prevent further erosion.


Sheet Flow Erosion: Sheet erosion is a major process in the denudation of land surfaces. It involves the falling of raindrops and their merging to form a near-continuous sheet which moves down hillslopes, gathering momentum and representing an erosive force of high potential.1  In Florida, this type of erosion begins in the back yards of properties, builds up, and cascades down the shoreline bringing native soil along with it.  The longer the back yard, the more water volume.  This type of erosion is half of the reason escarpments develop on shorelines- the other half being the varying water levels of ponds and lakes due to rainy season versus dry season or the current that occurs on streams, rivers, and canals.


Rill Erosion: Rill erosion is the type of erosion that occurs as water flows over a hillslope and cuts shallow, curvy channels into the top soil. If the rills are not mended, with more water flow they can form gullies. Gully erosion is the erosion that causes deeper cuts into the soil and is more detrimental to the environment.2  Rill erosion in Florida is especially detrimental due to the fact that the topsoil that is used in construction has a high silica (sand) content.  Additionally, our high annual rainfall collects between structures (such as homes) and becomes focused in one area, usually on a lot-line, as it reaches the shoreline.  This concentrated area receives a high volume of water, creating a cavity in the shoreline.  If left unchecked, this cavity becomes larger and larger with time and can eventually cause settling in structures, cracks in pool decks, or injuries to lawn care personnel!

Above Picture: Rill erosion eventually leads to large cavities, damage to irrigation piping, and failing sod.


Splash Erosion: Splash erosion or rain drop impact represents the first stage in the erosion process. Splash erosion results from the bombardment of the soil surface by rain drops. Rain drops behave as little bombs when falling on exposed or bare soil, displacing soil particles and destroying soil structure. Studies in the US have shown that splashed particles may rise as high as 1 foot above the ground and move up to 5 feet horizontally. Splash erosion results in the formation of surface crusts which reduce infiltration resulting in the start of runoff.3


There is also erosion that occurs on bodies of water here in south Florida that is caused by the rising and falling of water levels each year due to our very wet rainy season and fairly dry winters.  This loosens the soil around the lake or pond bank and makes it susceptible to the three types of erosion above.  If you would like to learn more about how erosion is affecting your property or community, please contact us.


References

1 Encyclopedia of Earth Science

2 Study.com

3 https://nre.tas.gov.au/

Recent Posts

Lake & Pond Dye Solutions for Healthier, More Attractive Water

By Seabreeze Lake Maintenance • December 23, 2025
How Seabreeze Lake Maintenance Uses Professional Dye Applications to Improve Water Quality, Reduce Algae, and Enhance Lake Aesthetics

Littoral Planting & Shoreline Restoration: Seabreeze’s Signature Solution for Healthy, Beautiful Waterways

By Seabreeze Lake Maintenance • December 20, 2025
Littoral planting—restoring a pond or lake’s shoreline with native aquatic plants—is one of the most powerful ways to improve water quality, stabilize banks, reduce algae, and enhance the natural appearance of a waterbody. A well-designed littoral zone transforms an ordinary retention pond into a thriving ecosystem that benefits the entire community. At Seabreeze Lake Maintenance , littoral restoration is more than just a service—it’s a core specialty. We are dedicated to rebuilding native shoreline habitats using plants that are scientifically proven to strengthen banks, clean the water, and support fish and wildlife. Our projects consistently produce healthier, more attractive waterbodies that require less chemical use and long-term maintenance. This article explains what littoral zones are, why they matter, and how Seabreeze leads the industry in shoreline restoration and planting. What Are Littoral Zones? Littoral zones are the shallow edges of a pond or lake where sunlight easily reaches the bottom, allowing aquatic plants to grow. These zones are the natural backbone of a healthy waterbody. Functions of a Proper Littoral Zone Stabilizes the shoreline to prevent erosion Absorbs excess nutrients that fuel algae growth Provides habitat for fish, frogs, and beneficial insects Improves water clarity by reducing sediment suspension Filters stormwater runoff before it enters the pond Adds natural beauty with vibrant native vegetation Without plants, ponds begin to fail—shorelines erode, sediment builds up, algae increases, water quality declines, and maintenance costs rise.  Littoral plants are not decoration—they are essential water-quality tools.

Fountain Care, Maintenance & Water Quality Management How Seabreeze Protects and Enhances Your Water Features

By Seabreeze Lake Maintenance • December 20, 2025
Decorative fountains are more than just eye-catching additions to a landscape—they play a crucial role in water circulation, oxygenation, and aesthetic appeal. From HOA entrance monuments to large community lakes, fountains create movement that prevents stagnation, supports aquatic health, and elevates the visual value of your property. At Seabreeze Lake Maintenance , we provide comprehensive fountain installation, maintenance, repair, and water-quality support for commercial properties, residential communities, municipalities, and private landowners. Our experience with aquatic systems, vegetation control, and aeration makes us uniquely equipped to keep fountains running smoothly while ensuring the water body they serve stays healthy year-round. This article explains the benefits of fountains, the types available, common problems, and how Seabreeze helps property owners maintain reliable and attractive water features. The Purpose of Fountains: Beauty Meets Function Fountains are often thought of as purely decorative, but their impact goes far deeper. When installed in ponds, lakes, or retention systems, they deliver essential environmental benefits. Aesthetic Benefits Enhances property value and visual appeal Creates a focal point for entrances, parks, golf courses, and communities Provides movement, sparkle, and sound that uplift outdoor environments Functional & Environmental Benefits Circulation & Oxygenation: Increases dissolved oxygen to support fish and beneficial bacteria Algae Reduction: Moving water disrupts surface stagnation Mosquito Control: Flowing water discourages breeding Odor Reduction: Reduces organic buildup and foul smells Water Stratification Prevention: Helps prevent temperature layering

CONTACT US TODAY

Schedule Your Consultation!

CONTACT US