Soil bioengineering is a streambank stabilization method that uses living p
lants as the primary structural component. It is a promising technique for
restoring urban streams, but many challenges remain. This article investiga
tes the causes and consequences of streambank degradation and evaluates the
effectiveness of soil bioengineering for erosion control and slope stabili
zation. Three soil bioengineering projects located on metropolitan Atlanta'
s waterways (Nancy Creek, Chattahoochee River, and South Peachtree Creek) a
re analyzed. The research included both primary and secondary data collecti
on activities, involving site visits, documentary review, in-person intervi
ews, photographic documentation, and project monitoring. Five key challenge
s are revealed: lack of baseline data, short-term vulnerability of installa
tions, inadequacy of previously applied erosion controls, limited site acce
ss, and need for community participation. Recommendations include the integ
ration of soil bioengineering strategies within watershed management and ur
ban development plans.