Streambank erosion can contribute substantial sediment and phosphorus loasds to rivers. This site along the Kalamazoo River in Ross Township was restored with log tie-backs, rock rip-rap and native plantings. The "before and after" photos illustrate the dramatic improvement in the site. It was estimated that the restoration stopped 71 pounds of phosphorus from entering the river annually. Additional "after" photos are shown below.

A streambank erosion survey was conducted on the main stem of the Kalamazoo River in 2003. Sediment and phosphorus loading was estimated from each site of erosion. It was estimated that the sites surveyed contribute over 650 pounds of phosphorus to the Kalamazoo River annually.