Erosion control and sediment control remain a top priority across construction, landscaping, and land-restoration projects. With regulations tightening and sustainability demands on the rise, project managers need solutions that are effective, cost-efficient, and environmentally responsible. Straw-based products remain a trusted choice in 2026, offering versatility, biodegradability, and proven performance in stabilizing soil, promoting vegetation, and protecting water quality. MKB Company leads the way with three standout solutions – Straw Wattle, StrawMax, and ErosionTech Straw Net Blankets – each designed to help contractors, landscapers, and even homeowners achieve compliance while supporting lasting site stabilization.
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Why Straw Still Matters for Erosion and Sediment Control in 2026
Straw remains one of the most effective and versatile materials for sediment and erosion control, and not just for large-scale construction. From highways to home gardens, its natural properties make it a go-to choice:
- Biodegradable and soil-friendly: As straw breaks down, it improves soil structure and adds organic matter, supporting long-term soil health.
- Moisture retention: Whether on a seeded slope or a backyard lawn, straw helps lock in moisture, speeding seed germination and promoting strong vegetation growth.
- Versatility across applications: Products like the Straw Wattle, StrawMax, and Straw Net Blankets give contractors, landscapers, and homeowners flexible solutions, from slope stabilization and perimeter control, to lawn repair and garden protection.
- Cost-effective and widely accepted: Straw products are affordable and commonly specified in stormwater permits, DOT projects, and land-restoration work.
The key differences come down to longevity, site conditions, and installation method. Some products are engineered for heavy-duty slope stabilization, while others are designed for quick touch-ups, lawn repair, or temporary control. Let’s explore how MKB’s straw-based lineup stacks up in 2026.
Straw Wattle: Contouring, Perimeter, and Sediment Control
Best for: Slope interruption, perimeter protection, inlet protection
MKB’s Straw Wattle line is designed to slow runoff, trap sediment, and reinforce site boundaries. Offered in multiple configurations, including the Diamond Wattle for added strength and biodegradable cotton-mesh wattles for environmentally sensitive areas, these straw-filled tubes are easy to install and adapt to various terrains.
- Creates effective barriers across slopes or along perimeters
- Slows water velocity, allowing sediment to settle
- Available in durable or biodegradable netting options
- DOT-recognized for compliance on regulated projects
When installed correctly, Straw Wattle is a simple yet powerful tool for stormwater compliance and erosion prevention.
StrawMax: Bagged Straw Products for Seeding, Lawns, and Gardens
Best for: Seed germination, lawn repair, small-scale erosion control, and moisture retention
StrawMax is MKB’s line of bagged straw products tailored for a variety of residential, landscaping, and light construction uses. Lightweight, weather-tight bales make them easy to transport, store, and apply—covering up to 500 sq. ft. per bale.
- StrawMax Seeding Straw: Comprised of chopped agricultural straw and a natural tackifier, this blend is designed to keep straw in place while improving seed germination and preventing erosion.
- Ideal for seeding projects or temporary erosion control
- Pre-chopped for even spreading
- Safe for use around homes, pets, and children
- StrawMax Lawn Repair Mix: A convenient all-in-one solution containing seed, straw, tackifier, and fertilizer.
- Repairs bare spots in sun or shade
- Keeps seed in place and promotes growth
- Quick, mess-free application
- StrawMax Home & Garden: 100% premium chopped straw with no additives—perfect for gardens, plant protection, or even pet bedding.
- Retains soil moisture and suppresses weeds
- Fully biodegradable
- Safe for residential and garden use
With three product types, StrawMax brings straw-based erosion control out of the construction zone and into everyday applications, from job sites to backyards.
ErosionTech Straw Net Blankets: Large-Scale Slope Stabilization
Best for: Slopes, embankments, drainage channels, and large disturbed areas
MKB’s ErosionTech Straw Net Blankets are engineered for bigger jobs where slope stabilization and vegetation establishment are critical. Available in both single and double net configurations with photodegradable or biodegradable netting, these blankets provide dependable surface protection while supporting root development.
- Controls erosion on slopes and in channels
- Encourages vegetation growth for long-term stabilization
- Offered in multiple roll sizes for efficiency
- DOT-recognized and widely specified for compliance projects
These blankets are a cost-effective choice for contractors managing highway embankments, road cuts, or any large disturbed soil areas that require immediate erosion protection.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Straw Wattle for slope contouring, perimeter protection, or inlet defense.
- Choose StrawMax for small to mid-scale projects—whether seeding, lawn repair, or garden moisture retention.
- Choose ErosionTech Straw Net Blankets for larger slopes, drainageways, and construction projects where broad coverage and long-lasting stabilization are essential.
Often, the most effective solution is a combination – for example, blankets on slopes, wattles at contours, and StrawMax for patching small areas or helping vegetation establish.
Why MKB Company in 2026?
MKB doesn’t just manufacture straw-based BMPs. We design solutions that meet today’s toughest compliance standards while staying practical for contractors, landscapers, and homeowners. Our products, including Straw Wattles, StrawMax bales, and ErosionTech Blankets are produced in the USA, ensuring dependable supply, consistent quality, and environmentally responsible performance.
Whether you’re stabilizing a slope, repairing your lawn, or protecting waterways on a jobsite, MKB has the right straw-based product for your 2026 project. Contact us today to get expert guidance and the specs you need to choose the best solution.
