What is the purpose of a revetment?

A revetment serves primarily as bank protection to prevent erosion, making it a crucial structural element in managing waterways and shorelines. By providing a barrier against the force of water, a revetment helps to stabilize banks and mitigate the effects of wave action, currents, and weather events that can wear away the land.

This protective function is vital for preserving both natural environments and human infrastructure. The proper design and implementation of revetments can significantly reduce soil erosion, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of riverbanks and coastal areas.

While some might see revetments as aesthetic features or conducive to specific ecological purposes, like enhancing fish habitats, their primary purpose is to protect and stabilize the bank structure itself from erosive forces.