Willow Spilling

A Willow Spilling is made from natural willow twigs and branches woven together to form an effective barrier to either prevent water entering a site, or to redirect a water flow. A Willow Spilling is a natural, environmentally friendly, and fully sustainable barrier. The spilling must use native willow, ideally Salix alba or S. fragilis. These cannot be supplied by a nursery but would require harvesting from a known source.

Spill is made up of inserting treated wooden posts (125 mm top) into the side of the stream at 1.2 meter intervals. The willow is cut to lengths between 4-5 meters and then weaved between the posts. After this is complete a small willow stake is inserted between the treated posts. The whole structure is secured by tying back with wire to another post. On completion of this the whole structure has wire weaved over the top to secure the willow. If required the whole structure is back filled with soil leaving the top of the spilling showing.

OpenSpace has a team of professionals with extensive experience in installing Willow Spillings in streams and rivers to help preserve natural habitats and protect wildlife, people, land and property from erosion.

The best time of year for this work is April to early May. Summer working is not very successful. Our team has over 15 years combined experience installing Willow Spillings.

If you have need of a natural, environmentally friendly, fully sustainable barrier in the form of a Willow Spilling, then we can help. Call us on 01228 711841 or email enquiries letting us know your requirements.