The study aimed to find ways to reduce soil and water erosion from highway slopes. Researchers measured erosion rates on bare roadbanks in the Coosa watershed in 1960. They found that slopes facing northwest and with steeper angles eroded the most. Testing over 30 plant species, they discovered that using mulches, lime, and fertilizer helped plant growth and reduced soil loss. Crownvetch, seeded at 20 pounds per acre and mulched with 2 tons of wheat straw per acre, showed promise in preventing erosion along highways.