For decades, “conventional” embankment stabilisation methods have centered on “hard” construction approaches such as vertical concrete, metal, or wood break-walls, gabions (stone-filled wire baskets) and rip rap (loose rocks or stones). Biologists and engineers now realize that in addition to creating a physical barrier, these hardened vertical or near-vertical structures reflect energy rather than absorb it, thereby worsening turbulence and increasing erosion in front of, under and adjacent to the “fix”. The effects of turbulence and erosion are not as severe when rip rap is used because it absorbs some of the energy from moving water. However, depending on its size and placement, rip rap still can create a barrier to wildlife species, and, as with solid structures, reduces vegetated habitat. .