a ditch check for controlling erosion or sediment run - off in a ditch or swale is configured as a generally planar panel . the panel has suitable water - conducting passages to permit and is given holes to insert anchor stakes to anchor the panel to the ground . the panel is preferably made substantially of a polymer or resinous moldable material . the panel is given such formed side edges that adjacent panels can overlap or enmesh one another where they meet to close a gap therebetween . it is optional that the panel be stackable with other like panels , for greater convenience during non - use periods , as while being transported and / or during storage . given the foregoing , the panel is meant to replace straw bales as ditch checks because the panel is very much lighter , is non - absorbent and inexpensive , and is indefinitely reusable .