ClimateSeptember 2, 2026

wattles

WOT-uhlz

Definition

Long, flexible tubes or rolls made of interwoven branches or straw, used in landscaping to prevent soil erosion.

Etymology

The word stems from Middle English 'watel,' referring to woven rods or twigs. It is related to the process of weaving materials to create fences or protective barriers.

In the news

Park officials used wattles to hold the loose soil in place after the fire destroyed the protective understory of the forest. This is critical for preventing the topsoil from washing away during heavy winter storms.

Rare Torrey pines faring worse than expected after Santa Rosa Island fire: ‘heartbreaking’

Read the full article ↗

Los Angeles Times

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