Grass can slow soil erosion, says expert

LAND-use issues such as soil erosion and climate change can be addressed by a grass systems technology, it has been revealed.
Founder of the Eagle Vetiver Systems Limited in Lae, Robinson Vanoh explained during the agri-talk session the benefits of the grass.
“The Vetiver grass grows roots that are seven meters deep and stronger than concrete,” Vanoh said.
He said the grass which was not native to PNG would be able to grow in the highlands and coastal areas.
“The grass can be grown close to the sea to stop soil erosion at beach fronts or mountain sides,” Vanoh said.
It can also be grown among crops to improve soil and water quality.
The grass was brought in by the National Agricultural Research Institute in the 1980s for research purposes.
Eagle Vetiver Systems Limited, based in Lae and Goroka, sells seedlings.
The Vetiver systems technology is a combination of bio-engineering used for soil and water conservation.