Snakes are important carnivores in Indiana ecosystems, and erosion control blankets with plastic netting can entrap and kill them, especially where Threatened and Endangered snake species occur. The fact sheet explains how plastic netting without movable joints may remain in place for years and pose ongoing risks. It outlines characteristics of snake-friendly erosion control blankets, including loose-weave or adjustable netting, larger mesh openings, biodegradable natural-fiber materials, and prompt removal when no longer needed. Indiana-specific guidelines and acceptable products are provided for projects in areas with potential listed snake species.
- Plastic erosion control netting without independent strand movement can entrap medium to large snakes, leading to dehydration and mortality, and has been found intact on sites up to eight years after installation.
- Snake-friendly designs emphasize loose-weave netting with movable joints, net openings at least two inches wide when joints are not movable, biodegradable natural-fiber materials, and prompt removal of temporary blankets.
- Alternatives that do not require netting include net-less erosion control blankets made of wood fibers, loose mulch, hydraulic mulch, soil binders, and straw bales.
- Indiana guidelines require specific net characteristics or NRCS State Biologist–approved products in areas with potential Threatened or Endangered snakes, covering species such as Butler’s Garter Snake, Copperbelly Water Snake (T), Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (T), Kirtland’s Snake, Rough Green Snake, Smooth Green Snake, Timber Rattlesnake, Western Cottonmouth, and Western Ribbon Snake.
