Straw wattles are an essential BMP for erosion and sediment control. Among the leading options, MKB Company’s straw wattles stand out for their durability, cost-efficiency, and selection of eco-friendly materials.
What Makes MKB Straw Wattles Special?
Engineered as a cost-effective and lightweight alternative to traditional filter socks and switchgrass barriers, MKB’s straw wattles offer reliable performance without compromising on quality. Available in multiple configurations—including standard agricultural straw, reinforced DiamondWattle netting, and biodegradable options made from natural material netting —these products are designed to meet a range of sediment and erosion control needs. Each wattle is filled with weed-free agricultural straw and encased in high-strength netting, providing durable sediment containment for slopes, drainage inlets, and perimeter control applications.
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Types of Straw Wattles Offered by MKB
1. Common Straw Wattle
- Encased in extruded HDPE netting (6″, 9″, 12″ diameters), black or white.
- UV stabilized with diamond-shaped mesh.
- Specifications include 3–20 ft lengths per wattle, ideal for most erosion-control jobs
2. DiamondWattle & DiamondWattle Natural+
- Reinforced, tear-resistant netting for warehouse storage and handling.
- Keeps pests away while offering long-lasting support.
- The Natural+ uses biodegradable fiber—perfect for eco-conscious projects
Proven Applications for Erosion and Sediment Control
Strategically installed along contour lines, straw wattles effectively reduce water velocity and minimize the risk of rill and gully erosion on disturbed or sloped terrain.
Deployed as a first line of defense, straw wattles serve as high-performance sediment barriers, helping contractors retain soil on-site and maintain regulatory compliance throughout the construction lifecycle.
Placed around stormwater inlets, these wattles act as physical filters that intercept sediment-laden runoff, preventing system blockages and reducing pollutant loading during high-flow events.
Ideal for temporary use in drainage channels and ditches, straw wattles slow concentrated flow, facilitate sediment settling, and mitigate downstream impacts.
Netting Matters: MKB’s Premium Selection
Strong netting is crucial for wattle performance. MKB offers:
- Extruded Polyethylene (black/green): durable, UV-resistant, common choice
- Natural Original (cotton fiber): biodegradable, well-suited for short-term use
- Natural+ (wood fiber): tight weave, longer durability, eco-friendly
- DiamondWattle reinforced netting: tear-resistant design keeps pests out and extends shelf-life
Installation & Maintenance: Best Practices
For optimal performance, straw wattles should be securely staked at intervals no greater than 5 feet to ensure stability under flow conditions and site traffic. Proper anchoring is critical when deploying wattles along contour lines, within check dam configurations, or around inlet structures.
Biodegradable models offer additional operational efficiency—designed to be installed directly into the soil and left in place, these units naturally decompose over time, eliminating the need for post-project removal and reducing labor costs associated with site restoration.
Why MKB Straw Wattles Boost ROI
MKB’s straw wattles deliver a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution compared to traditional silt fences and heavy-duty filter socks—without sacrificing performance. Each unit is filled with clean, weed-free agricultural straw, reducing site prep time and eliminating the need for additional vegetation management.
A variety of netting options—including durable extruded polyethylene, biodegradable cotton, and reinforced vermin-resistant mesh—allow contractors to tailor product selection to specific project conditions. With multiple diameters and lengths available, these wattles are engineered to perform across a wide range of applications, from perimeter control and slope interruption to inlet protection and drainage management.
Next Steps: Spec MKB Straw Wattles Today!
Contact MKB Company today to request a quote, speak with a product specialist, or learn how our straw wattles can help streamline compliance and maximize project ROI. Our team is here to provide product recommendations, technical guidance, and fast turnaround to keep your project moving forward.
Interested in team training? Ask about our virtual Lunch & Learn sessions—an easy way to earn PDH credits while staying current on industry best practices.
