Disclosed is an apparatus for pipeline stabilization and shoreline erosion
protection, termed a BulkMat device, for protecting and securing pipelines, which
are typically located in ditches or on the floor of large bodies of water. In preferred
form, the BulkMat comprises a long fabric mat with four to eight fabric compartments
sewn onto the mat and filled with dry bulk sand/cement mix. In the preferred embodiment,
the BulkMat is comprised of polypropylene. The BulkMat has four lifting loops that
are used to pick-up and lower the BulkMat onto the desired location. When the bulk
mat is placed on the location, and water sets in, the sand/cement mix in the compartments
will harden to concrete. By hardening after it is set in place, the BulkMat will
conform completely to the pipeline or covered area to be protected, precisely matching
the specific area.