Erosion and Sediment Control Manual
Erosion and Sediment Control Manual
Erosion and Sediment Control Manual
Prepared by:
GEOSYNTEC CONSULTANTS
3990 Old Town Avenue, Suite B-101
San Diego, California 92110
Acknowledgements
Many of the figures provided in the BMP details in the appendices of this
manual have been provided by Salix, developer of Erosion Draw, Bio Draw, and E-
SenSS software for environmentally sensitive erosion control and streambank
stabilization design. These drawings may be reproduced without restriction by Oregon
DEQ and the users of this Manual but should not be reproduced without permission for
use in creating other non-DEQ sponsored manuals, training classes, etc. No part of this
manual should be repackaged and sold as a part of other manuals or for other uses
without permission of DEQ and the authors.
Table of Contents
Page
SECTION 1 – INTRODUCTION................................................................................. 1-1
1.1 Purpose of the Manual ...................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 How to Use the Manual .................................................................................... 1-2
1.3 Definitions of Erosion and Sediment Control................................................... 1-4
1.4 Regulatory Background .................................................................................... 1-5
1.4.1 Federal Clean Water Act....................................................................... 1-5
1.4.2 NPDES Implementation in Oregon ...................................................... 1-6
1.4.3 Local NPDES Implementation and Implementation by Indian Tribes. 1-8
1.4.4 Oregon Water Quality Standards .......................................................... 1-9
1.4.5 TMDLs.................................................................................................. 1-9
1.4.6 Underground Injection Control............................................................. 1-9
1.4.7 Endangered Species Act ..................................................................... 1-10
1.4.8 Wetland Filing and In-Water Construction........................................... 1-11
1.5 Minimum BMPs for Small Projects................................................................ 1-13
SECTION 2 – WHY IS EROSION A PROBLEM? ................................................... 2-1
2.1 Natural versus Accelerated Erosion.................................................................. 2-1
2.2 Sedimentation Impacts...................................................................................... 2-3
2.3 Erosion Prevention to Reduce Turbidity .......................................................... 2-5
2.4 Advantages of Compliance ............................................................................... 2-6
2.4.1 Economic Advantages of Compliance.................................................. 2-6
2.4.2 Environmental Advantages of Compliance .......................................... 2-7
SECTION 3 – SITE PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT ........................................ 3-1
3.1 Principles of Erosion and Sediment Control..................................................... 3-1
3.2 Climate of Oregon and Influences on Erosion.................................................. 3-2
3.3 Considerations in Construction Scheduling...................................................... 3-5
3.3.1 Construction Phases and BMP Implementation ................................... 3-5
3.3.2 The Optimum Grading Period .............................................................. 3-7
3.3.3 The Importance of Timing during Construction................................... 3-7
3.4 Planning and Construction Considerations for Areas of High Rainfall............ 3-8
3.5 Developing and Implementing an ESCP ....................................................... 3-10
3.5.1 Step 1 - Identify Issues and Concerns................................................. 3-11
3.5.2 Step 2 - Develop Goals and Objectives .............................................. 3-11
LIST OF BMPs
EP-1 Scheduling
EP-2 Preservation of Existing Vegetation
EP-3 Surface Roughening
EP-4 Topsoiling
EP-5 Temporary Seeding and Planting
EP-6 Permanent Seeding and Planting
EP-7 Mycorrhizae / Biofertilizers
EP-8 Mulches
EP-9 Compost Blankets
EP-10 Erosion Control Blankets and Mats
EP-11 Soil Binders
EP-12 Stabilization Mats
EP-13 Wind Erosion Control
EP-14 Live Staking
EP-15 Pole Planting
EP-16 Live Fascines and Brush Wattles
EP-17 Brush Box
EP-18 Fascines with Subdrains
TECHNICAL APPENDICES
SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION
Summary
The objectives of this manual are to provide the user a standardized set of
tools: best management practices (BMPs) for implementation on
construction projects throughout the State of Oregon. The goal is to
facilitate the reduction of water quality impacts by land-disturbing activities
through design and implementation of a comprehensive system of erosion
prevention , sediment control and non-storm water BMPs.
have previous experience with the planning, design and implementation of construction
storm water BMPs may benefit primarily from the information provided in individual BMP
sections.
Symbols and highlighted text are provided to facilitate a better understanding of a
specific point. For example:
The light bulb and the green text box highlights important
principles or practices
The stop sign and yellow text box indicate caution in applying the
general recommendations provided in the text to site-specific
situations.
Key terms, defined within the text, are provided for review at the end
of each section.
The BMP Selection Process (Section 3) is designed to aid users of this manual
through the BMP selection process. Throughout the selection process, users should take into
account the benefits and limitations of each of the BMPs considered. Finally, BMP success
is contingent not only appropriate design and implementation, but on proper maintenance
and the coordination and communication between the designers, engineers, and the field
construction teams.
Sediment Control is any practice that traps the soil particles after they have
been detached and moved by wind or water. Sediment control measures are usually
passive systems that rely on filtering or settling the particles out of the water or wind that
is transporting them. Sediment
control treats the soil as a waste
product that must be removed
from where it has been
transported and accumulated and
disposed of at another location.
Which are more effective,
erosion or sediment controls?
Generally speaking, erosion
prevention controls are more
effective than sediment controls,
and are preferred because they
keep the soil in place and
enhance the protection of the site resources.
Whenever possible, the primary protection at the site should be erosion prevention
controls, with sediment controls used as a secondary system.
In 1972, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (later referred to as the Clean
Water Act (CWA)) was amended to provide that the discharge of pollutants to waters of
the United States from any point source is effectively prohibited unless the discharge
complies with a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit.
Amendments to the CWA in 1987 added Section 402(p) to the Act that establishes a
framework for regulating municipal and industrial discharges of storm water under the
NPDES program. The regulations require that construction activities disturbing an area of
five acres or more must be regulated as an industrial activity, and covered by a NPDES
permit. Final regulations that established application requirements for regulated storm
water discharges, known as the “Phase I Rule,” were published in the Federal Register on
November 16, 1990.
Under the Phase I Rule, construction activities that are subject to NPDES storm
water permitting include clearing, grading, or excavation that results in the disturbance of
at least five acres of total land area. Construction activity on sites of less than five acres
requires a permit if the construction is part of a larger common plan of development or
sale. Construction activities do not include routine maintenance performed by public
agencies to maintain original line and grade, hydraulic capacity, or original purpose of
the facility, or emergency construction activities required to protect public health and
safety. Reconstruction of facilities involving the removal and replacement of existing
structures requires a construction permit.
In December 1999, the EPA finalized the “Phase II” regulations, which require
controls on storm water discharges from a broader sector of municipalities, industries,
and construction sites. Specifically for construction, the Phase II Rule requires
construction sites disturbing equal to or greater than one acre and less than five acres to
control pollutants in storm water runoff. Construction activity disturbing less than one
acre requires a permit if it is part of a larger common plan of development or sale
disturbing a total of one acre or greater, or is individually designated for permit coverage
by the NPDES permitting authority. The Phase II regulations went into effect on
March 10, 2003.
According to the Federal regulations, permit coverage for storm water
discharges associated with construction activity can be obtained through individual
permits or general permits. Individual permitting involves the submittal of specific data
on a single construction project to the appropriate permitting agency that will issue a site-
specific NPDES permit to the project. NPDES coverage under a general permit involves
the submittal of a notice by the regulated construction project that they intend to comply
with a general permit to be developed by EPA or a state with general permit authority.
Application forms, the NOT form, and guidelines are available at:
http://www.deq.state.or.us/wq/wqpermit/Gen1200CGuidance.pdf.
1.4.5 TMDLs
Permittees must additionally comply with any Total Maximum Daily Loads
(TMDLs) if construction activities will contribute pollutants for which a specific basin or
receiving water is listed for impairment. If a stream is listed as impaired because of
turbidity or sediment, construction sites may be designated as contributors to the
impairment. Section 303(d) of the CWA established the TMDL process to guide the
application of state water quality standards to individual water bodies and watersheds. A
TMDL defines the amount of a particular pollutant that a water body can adsorb daily
without violating applicable water quality standards. Once this load is established, DEQ
allocates a portion to each source of that pollutant within a particular watershed. In the
case of construction activities within an impaired watershed, DEQ may require the
permittee to implement additional BMPs, apply for an individual NPDES permit, or take
other necessary action to ensure compliance with TMDL discharge requirements. To
find out if there are additional TMDL-related requirements for your project, please
contact your DEQ regional office.
were over 23,000 active UIC systems registered with DEQ, with over 95% of these
systems used for storm water injection and the majority operated by federal, state, and
local municipalities.
Municipalities are required to have storm water management plans in place that
set forth system details, required BMPs for storm water discharging to UIC systems,
monitoring requirements, and data management requirements. Some construction
projects may discharge to municipal UICs and must comply with applicable local
requirements as well as DEQ NPDES 1200-C General Permit requirements. Any
construction project discharging to a UIC system must comply with requirements set
forth in the applicable municipality’s UIC storm water management plan, including
source control and treatment BMPs; BMPs for segregation of storm water from areas
where hazardous and toxic materials are used, handled, or stored; implementation of a
spill prevention and response plan; and employee training. Local requirements may also
involve sampling of construction site runoff to ensure compliance. More information on
UIC requirements is available at http://www.deq.state.or.us/wq/groundwa/uichome.htm
Local jurisdictions should be contacted for specific UIC system requirements applicable
to the project site.
certain thresholds. The federal permit cannot be issued without the issuance of the WQC
unless DEQ provides a waiver or does not respond to the request for it within one year.
The review and evaluation of a project requiring a WQC consists of state water quality
standards which are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These
approved standards cover beneficial uses, policies, and criteria, are listed in Oregon
Administrative Rules (OAR) 340 Division 41, and include: Antidegradation, Narrative
Criteria, Bacteria, Biocriteria, Dissolved Oxygen, Nuisance Phytoplankton Growth, pH,
Temperature, Total Dissolved Gas, Total Dissolved Solids, Toxic Substances, Turbidity,
Water Quality Limited Waters, Mixing Zones, Implementation at Wastewater Treatment
Works, Other Implementation of Water Quality Criteria, and Basin-Specific Criteria.
Additionally, conditions are based Load Allocations in approved Total Maximum Daily
Loads (TMDLS) for water quality limited water bodies, subsequent TMDL
implementation plans, specific management measures in Oregon’s Coastal Nonpoint
Source Program, and sediment contaminate, solid waste, and related clean-up issues.
DEQ provides WQC’s through the USACE’s CWA 404 and Rivers and Harbors
Act Section 10 permit processes. DEQ works closely with a number of agencies through
this process including, the USACE, NOAA Fisheries, US Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS) Department of Land Conservation and Development, DSL, Oregon
Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Water Resources Department, and other local
jurisdictions. If a proposed project is located in an area that contains endangered species,
as determined by the Endangered Species Act of 1973, a consultation may be required by
USFWS and/or NOAA Fisheries. Once the final project proposal has been determined,
DEQ evaluates the proposal and determines if the project will be issued a WQC with
conditions or will be denied a WQC.
The DSL permit process is somewhat different than the federal permit process.
This is because DSL works primarily with all of the state natural resource agencies,
which have varying regulations and requirements from the federal agencies involved in
the process. DEQ comments on all DSL proposed projects that are published for public
comment regarding any water quality issues and/or questions. All issues that have been
raised by DEQ must be addressed prior to the issuance of permits by DSL or by
conditioning the permit appropriately. DEQ works closely with the applicant, DSL and
the USACE to ensure that any issues raised regarding water quality are coordinated
efficiently and effectively throughout both permit processes.
Information regarding the DSL and USACE permit processes can be found at:
http://www.oregonstatelands.us/r-fintro.htm
https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/op/g/
SECTION 2
WHY IS EROSION A PROBLEM?
Summary
This chapter identifies the causes of accelerated erosion as man-induced,
land-disturbing activities that result in increased sediment delivery to down
slope/downstream water bodies. Sedimentation impacts on in-stream and
off-stream water quality are illuminated along with other resource base,
agricultural and air quality impacts. Economic and environmental
advantages of compliance with NPDES storm water regulations are
discussed.
The goal of the EPA regulations on erosion is not to stop natural erosion.
The goal of the regulations is to control accelerated erosion caused by
human activities, so there is no net increase in sediment being discharged
from a construction site over pre-construction conditions.
Erosion and sedimentation can result in impacts to public infrastructure such as
creating both nuisance and larger scale problems when streets, streams and storm drains
are clogged with sediment and are then prone to flooding. These impacts can result in
problems that affect public safety and result in permanent infrastructure damage such as
road failure and pipeline damage, as well as environmental impacts. Uncontrolled
erosion is costly; violates state and Federal pollution laws; and exposes developers,
contractors, and landowners to legal liabilities.
Water quality parameters that reflect the level of sediment yield are turbidity
and suspended solids. As turbidity increases within a stream environment,
photosynthetic activity may decrease with a subsequent potential decrease in available
free oxygen necessary to support aquatic life. An increase in the concentration of
suspended solids may destroy water supplies for human, animal, and other wildlife
consumption, as well as feeding and nesting habitats. Implementation of erosion
prevention controls consistent with sound construction operations can minimize the
adverse impacts associated with increased sediment yield.
Some of the in-stream and off-stream impacts of turbidity and sedimentation are
provided below.
• Lake degradation
Agriculture Impacts:
Loss of soil results in reduced crop production and higher management costs
(such as seed and fertilizer).
Sediment can cause damage to fish and wildlife resources, water supply quality,
recreational values, and habitat values.
Oregon’s current turbidity standard (OAR 340-41-0036) requires that “no more
than a ten percent increase in natural stream turbidities be allowed, as measured relative
to a control point immediately upstream of the turbidity causing agent.” The standard
makes allowances for emergency activities approved by DEQ and the Department of Fish
and Game and dredging, construction or other legitimate activities authorized under
Section 401 or 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.
• Removal of silt deposits from storm drains and ultimately, water bodies
• Reduction of water storage capacities of reservoirs
• Increased water treatment costs
• Increase in flooding hazards
• Cost of stop work orders, fines, and lawsuits
KEY TERMS
SUMMARY CHECKLIST
While we can learn from the processes of natural erosion, erosion prevention
is usually focused on sites where human activities accelerate this process.
The goal of the EPA regulations on construction sites is for there to be no net
increase in sediment discharge over pre-construction conditions.
SECTION 3
SITE PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT
Summary
This section presents the principles of Erosion and Sediment Control and a
summary of regional climates in Oregon relevant to site planning and
management, as well as considerations for construction scheduling, and
presents a 10-step process for developing and implementing an ESCP.
Precipitation
Western Oregon receives the bulk of its annual precipitation during winter
(generally November through March). East of the Cascades the annual distribution is
more uniform, with some locations receiving more precipitation in summer than in
winter. The most important factors that influence regional precipitation amounts are
elevation and distance from the coast. However, on a local scale elevation has the most
influence on precipitation distributions.
The Coastal range and Cascades act as barriers to the flow of air. As warmer air
is forced over the ranges, the air cools and releases its moisture on the windward side of
the range. This process is known as orographic lifting and often results in precipitation
and/or thunderstorms. Orographic influences usually occur at large spatial scales in
response to large scale topographic variations. A major terrain barrier such as the
Cascades results in abundant orographic precipitation, even though small ridges and
valleys embedded in the mountain range may not show demonstrable effects (Taylor and
Hannan, 1999).
Another result of the orographic influences is called the “rain shadow” effect
where precipitation amounts drop significantly on the leeward side of a barrier or
mountain range. This effect is very evident in eastern Oregon where large areas have
annual precipitation less than 12 inches (30.5 cm). The northern Cascades receive an
excess of 80 inches (203.2 cm) per year. Areas west of the Cascades receive 65 to 90
inches (165.1 to 228.6 cm) of precipitation annually at lower elevations along the coast
(Zone 1); 40 to 80 inches (101.6 to 203.2 cm) of precipitation annually in the Willamette
Valley (Zone 2); and southwestern Oregon (Zone 3) receives less than 20 inches (50.8
cm) at lower elevations and over 120 inches (304.8 cm) at high elevations annually.
Snow is relatively rare along the immediate coastline in Oregon. However
many areas at higher elevations and higher latitudes receive much of their precipitation as
snowfall. Specific areas are discussed in the climate zone discussions in Appendix A.
In general the following statements characterize precipitation trends in Oregon:
• Precipitation decreases as one moves eastward from the Coastal range and
Cascades;
• More that half of the days during the winter months in western Oregon
have measurable precipitation;
depths up to 200 inches (508 cm) per year due to intense orographic effects; and east of
the Cascade range the lowest annual precipitation depths are found due to the “rain
shadow” effect.
Thunderstorms
In western Oregon thunderstorms occur only 4-5 times per year, mostly in the
inland valleys and near the Cascades. Generally they are not severe and produce little
damage. Eastern Oregon receives many more thunderstorms (typically 12-18 per year),
and they tend to be much more severe, resulting in greater damage to crops and buildings.
Mountains are especially susceptible to thunderstorm damage; each year a considerable
number of forest fires are started by lightning (Taylor and Hannan, 1999).
Winds
Local winds in Oregon are dominated by large-scale pressure patterns over the
North Pacific and onshore. During winter (and, to a lesser extent, autumn and spring),
frequent cyclonic storms reach the area from the west, greatly influencing winds and
other weather elements. Summer months see fewer strong storms, and are more typically
characterized by sea-land breeze regimes.
Several times each year winds exceeding hurricane strength (74 mph; 119
kmph) strike Oregon, especially along the coast. These high wind events are usually
associated with intense storm events and may cause damage to vegetation and structures.
In the coastal region the wind can be characterized as sea or land breezes. However,
throughout Oregon, occasional high intensity wind storms are evident (Taylor and
Hannan, 1999).
Prevailing winds vary with season: Winter wind directions generally flow from
the south or east; summer wind directions generally flow from the west or northwest.
Note that local topography plays a significant role in the wind direction.
Step
Description What to Do
No.
Identify, mark, and protect (by fencing off or other means) critical
riparian areas and vegetation including important trees and associated
rooting zones and vegetation areas to be preserved. Identify
vegetative buffer zones between the site and sensitive areas (e.g.,
1. Before Construction wetlands), and other areas to be preserved, especially in perimeter
areas.
Hold a pre-construction meeting to discuss the specifics of erosion and
sediment control measures and construction limits.
Site Access Areas Stabilize site entrances and access roads prior to earthwork.
(construction entrances,
2.
roadways equipment
parking areas)
Install perimeter sediment control, including storm drain inlet protection
Install Sediment Control
3. as well as all sediment basins, traps, and barriers. These should be
Measures
in place before vegetation is disturbed.
Concurrent with establishing construction access controls and
Non-Stormwater Pollution sediment controls, the contractor must establish material and waste
5.
Control Measures storage areas, concrete washouts and other non-storm water controls
prior to the start of construction activities.
The next phase is to stabilize streambanks and construct the primary
6. Runoff Control
runoff control measures to protect areas from concentrated flows.
Begin land clearing, excavation, trenching, or grading after installing
7. Land Clearing and Grading applicable sediment and runoff control measures. Install additional
control measures as work progresses as needed.
Surface Stabilization Apply temporary or permanent soil stabilization measures immediately
8. (temporary and permanent on all disturbed areas as grading progresses.
seeding, mulching)
Construction and Paving Erosion and sediment control measures should remain in place for the
9. (install utilities, buildings, duration of construction, including protection for active storm drain
paving) inlets and appropriate non-storm water pollution controls.
Final Stabilization and Provide permanent erosion prevention measures on all exposed areas
10.
Landscaping and remove all temporary control measures as areas are stabilized.
To answer these questions, the designer must conduct an erosion control study
which:
• Data collection
• Identification of critical areas
• Identification of timing of soil-disturbing activities
• Identification of site factors influencing erosion and evaluation of erosion
potential
The potential for erosion at a site may be evaluated using a wide range of
published resource material in combination with data collected by field investigation.
Data collected should, at a minimum, include the following:
• Topographic information
• Photo documentation
• Field survey and evaluation
• Climate and rainfall information
• Identification of drainage areas and receiving waters
• Identification of critical habitat or sensitive areas
• Soils information
City and County - regulations and ordinances, prior land uses, adjacent and downstream
uses, storm drain system information, rainfall data
NRCS/District Conservationist - soil survey, climatological information,
vegetation/habitat, water management, recreation potential, aerial surveys
National Climatic Data Center (NOAA), National Weather Service, and Oregon
Climate Service - climate data.
Department of State Lands
US Army Corps of Engineers
USGS - topographic maps, major waterways, rainfall and stream gauge data
State - regulations, stream surveys, pollution control programs, habitat/endangered
species, wetlands, archaeological sites
In developing an effective ESCP, the next step is to identify the critical areas of
the site to be developed. This would include points of ingress/egress; graded slopes;
areas where vegetation is to be removed; sensitive habitat areas; and sensitive receiving
water bodies. These must all be explicitly addressed in the plan.
3.5.3.3 Consideration of Timing of Soil-Disturbing Activities
A = R x K x LS x C x P
where
R = Rainfall Factor
K = Soil Erodibility
L = Length of Slope
S = Slope Steepness
C = Cover Factor
P = Conservation Practice Factor
and
Each site factor that influences erosion (i.e., variable in the RUSLE) is described
below.
Rainfall/Climate (R)
tables.
Flow Path Length and Slope (LS)
• The degree to which length and slope (LS Factor) play in erosion
can
be calculated using USDA/NRCS charts.
In general:
• The effect of flow path length is not as great as effect of slope steepness
• Long uninterupted slopes and especially long steep slopes (2:1 horizontal:
vertical or greater) should not be constructed
• Vegetation establishment
• Moisture content
Cover
• Effectiveness
• Implementation cost
• Temporary vs. permanent BMP
• Cost of temporary BMP removal
• Long-term cost (maintenance)
• Environmental compatibility
• Regulatory acceptability (state and local)
• Availability
• Durability
• Longevity
• Ability to achieve vegetation establishment within project
schedule.
• Technical feasibility
• Public acceptability
• Risk/liability
• Suitability for the site
Part of this screening process may be determined by the evaluation of the data
collected in the first step of the process. For example, a site with predominantly clayey
soils or a shallow water table could make the use of infiltration basins infeasible. Or the
screening process may be partly determined by the results of the quantification efforts.
For example, high velocities in unlined channels may dictate the need for channel lining.
Selection Criteria
After screening the nominated alternatives, the six factors below highlight the
six characteristics that most designers consider in the selection process: cost,
Cost-Effectiveness
Performance histories, both field and laboratory, should be evaluated for a
number of materials and techniques and related to costs. Factors to be considered
relative to costs include:
• Material costs
• Preparation costs
• Installation costs
• Maintenance costs
• Temporary BMP removal costs
• Local government requirements
Table 3-2
INSTALLED COSTS AND EFFECTIVENESS OF EP AND SC BMPS
Estimated Relative Erosion/
BMP Unit Cost Installed
Sediment Control Effectiveness1
Sediment Control
Sediment Fence $1.50 – 2.00 per lineal foot 95%
Compost Berm (12-16 inch height) $1.75 - 2.00 per lineal foot 95 - 99%
Fiber Rolls (9 inch) $1.50 – 2.00 per lineal foot 58%
(12 inch) $2.00 - 2.50 per lineal foot 95 - 99%
(9 inch with trackwalking) $3.00 - 4.00 per lineal foot 84 %
Erosion Prevention Controls
Fertilizer $450 – 550 per acre N/A
Seeding $870 – 2,170 per acre 50%
Stolonizing $2,200 per acre + cost of stolons 90%
Hydraulic Mulching $900 – 1,200 per acre 50 – 60%
Compost Application (2,000 lbs/acre) $900 – 1,200 per acre 40 – 50%
(2 inch blanket application) $7,000 - 10,000 per acre 95 - 99%
(3-4 inch blanket application) $10,000 - 15,000 per acre 95 - 99%
Straw Mulching $1,800 – 2,100 per acre 90 – 95%
Soil Binders
Plant Material-Based (Short-Term) $700 – 900 per acre 85 - 99%
Plant Material-Based (Long-Term) $1,200 – 1,500 per acre 60 – 65%
Polymeric Emulsion Blends (Including PAM) $700 – 1,500 per acre 30 – 95%
Petroleum Resin-Based $1,200 – 1,500 per acre 25 – 40%
Cementitious Binder-Based $800 – 1,200 per acre 80 – 85%
Hydraulic Matrices (Wood mulch + Soil binder) $1,000 - 2,000 per acre 65 - 99%
Bonded Fiber Matrices $5,000 – 6,500 per acre 90 – 99%
Rolled Erosion Control Products
Biodegradable
Jute $6,000 – 7,000 per acre 65 – 70%
Curled Wood Fiber $8,000 – 10,500 per acre 90 – 99%
Straw $8,000 – 10,500 per acre 90 – 99%
Wood Fiber $8,000 – 10,500 per acre 90 – 99%
Coconut Fiber $13,000 – 14,000 per acre 90 – 99%
Coconut Fiber Net $30,000 – 33,000 per acre 90 – 99%
Straw Coconut $10,000 – 12,000 per acre 90 – 99%
Non-Biodegradable
Plastic Netting $2,000 – 2,200 per acre < 50%
Plastic Mesh $3,000 – 3,500 per acre 75 – 80%
Synthetic Fiber w/Netting $34,000 – 40,000 per acre 90 – 99%
Bonded Synthetic Fibers $45,000 – 55,000 per acre 90 – 99%
Combination Synthetic and Biodegradable Fibers $30,000 – 36,000 per acre 85 – 99%
Source: Erosion Control Pilot Study Report, Caltrans, June 2000, Table 4-1; Updated May 2004
1. Effectiveness is based on the percentage of sediment retained by weight in laboratory tests. A high effectiveness rating may
not equate to meeting water quality standards because some controls such as sediment fence retain larger particles and allow
fines to pass which remain in suspension.
Availability
The BMP materials must be readily available from a local supplier or be capable
of immediate shipment to the area within the timeframe designated by the plans.
Feasibility
The BMP materials must be capable of relatively quick and easy application
with minimal training required to orient crews or contractors to proper application
procedures. Each BMP should be considered for its flexibility or applicability to a
variety of field conditions. Factors to be considered relative to feasibility include:
Durability
Given the nature of the site conditions, the BMP materials must maintain their
structural integrity during installation and persist until vegetation has established
effective cover.
Compatibility
BMP materials should be selected with regard to public acceptability and
environmental sensitivity. In this regard, primarily organic/biodegradable, recycled
and/or photodegradable products are often preferable. Factors to be considered relative
to compatibility include:
Operation
Regardless of the BMPs selected, follow-up is always required.
All erosion and sediment control BMPs have the need for maintenance
(particularly those used for sediment control). While the cost of operation is
seldom considered in erosion control planning, lack of maintenance is usually
the primary cause of failure of an erosion and sediment control system and
adds cost to the overall project.
Site Maps and Construction Plans (Guidance Section 2.4.2; Worksheet Question 9)
A Total property boundary including surface area of the development
B All areas of soil disturbance
C All areas of cut and fill
D Drainage patterns before and after finish grading; Locations, size, and type of
discharge outfalls/points
E Receiving water body for site drainage
F Areas used for storage of soils or wastes
G Erosion and sediment control facilities/structures including vegetative practices
H Impervious structures added to the site (roads, buildings, parking lots, etc.)
I Surface waters on or near the sites including springs and wetlands
J Boundaries of the 100-yr flood plain on the site
Erosion and Sediment Controls – (Guidance Section 2.4.3; Worksheet Question 9, 10,
and 11) – Controls to be shown on construction plans and described in appropriate areas
of the Worksheet.
C Describe / show details of correct installation or use of all erosion and sediment
control measures
D Describe maintenance procedures for BMPs, walls, dams, or other structures
identified in the plan (Refer to Schedule A.4 of the NPDES 1200-C General
Permit)
Additional Controls –
• The plan should be adapted to the resources (i.e., labor, equipment and
materials) available.
• To the extent possible, the BMPs should fit the existing terrain.
• The plan should have some flexibility to reflect possible changes in site
conditions between plan development and plan implementation.
• Clear schedule
Communication
Contractors should be provided with exact specifications for the practices they
are to apply. The quality of work conducted should be inspected routinely
and on a “no-notice” basis.
Clear Schedule
Inspection Frequency
For active sites, inspections must be conducted daily during storm water
runoff or snowmelt runoff and at least once every seven calendar days and within 24
hours after any storm event greater than 0.5 inches of rain in a 24-hour period.
During inactive periods of greater than seven (7) consecutive calendar days,
inspections are required every two weeks. Local agencies may have requirements
that exceed those of the NPDES 1200-C General Permit.
During storm events, the contractor should be prepared to call out maintenance
crews to inspect the performance of erosion and sediment control measures. Appropriate
materials and equipment should be kept on hand to affect a quick and rapid response.
Following storm events, the contractor should conduct an overall site inspection and
replace or repair damaged control measures.
It is the nature of construction sites that they change as they progress. The
difference between the schedule for the ESCP and the actual progress of the
project is one of the single most common sources of problems with erosion
control at construction sites.
• All elements of the ESCP must be completed and all temporary erosion
and sediment controls as well as construction related materials or wastes
must be removed from the site and disposed of properly.
KEY TERMS
Mitigation Design objectives
Alternatives Comprehensive
Issues and Concerns Receiving waters
Liability exposure Relevant conditions
Erosion potential Soil erodibility
Flow path length Cover
Critical areas Cost-effectiveness
Environmental compatibility Longevity
Soil texture sensitivity Institutional acceptance
Site-specific Living document
SUMMARY CHECKLIST
The ten (10) key steps of the erosion and sediment control planning process
are:
Step 1. Identify Issues and Concerns
Step 2. Develop Goals and Objectives
Step 3. Collect and Analyze Data
Step 4. Develop BMP Selection Criteria
Step 5. Nominate Candidate BMPs
Step 6. Screen and Select BMPs
Step 7. Develop ESCP
Step 8. Implement the ESCP
Step 9. Operate, Monitor, and Maintain the System
Step 10. Update the Plan
The difference between the schedule for the ESCP and the actual
progress of the project is one of the single most common sources of
problems with erosion control at construction sites.
SECTION 4
RUNOFF CONTROL
Summary
This section identifies the hydrologic cycle and the impact of construction
activities on drainage patterns at a site. Runoff control measures must be
designed into the ESCP and implemented at a construction site. This
section identifies methods to predict surface runoff, factors affecting runoff
and describes runoff control BMPs that can be used to divert and control
runoff at a site.
The Rational Formula is simple and easy to use and provides useful results
when applied within the limits of this empirical formula.
Q =CiA
Q = Design discharge in cubic feet per second
C = Coefficient of runoff
i = Average rainfall intensity in inches per hour for
the selected frequency and for a duration equal
to the time of concentration
A = Drainage area in acres.
Assumptions
The Rational Formula assumes that the maximum flow from a drainage area results
when rainfall of uniform intensity falls over the entire drainage area, and the duration of
that rainfall is equal to the time required for storm runoff to travel from the most remote
point of the drainage basin to the point of interest. This drainage area travel time is
defined as the drainage area's time of concentration, “tc”.
Limitations
The probability of rainfall of uniform intensity falling over an entire drainage area for a
period of time equal to tc decreases as the size of the drainage area increases. As a result,
the Rational Formula should be used only when estimating runoff from small simple
drainage areas, preferably no large than 20 acres. Where the drainage area is relatively
small but complicated by a mainstream fed by one or more significant tributaries, the
Rational Formula should be applied to each tributary stream and the tributary flows then
routed down the main channel.
The NPDES 1200-C General Permit requires that the ESCP for any site that
requires engineered facilities, such as diversion structures or sediment basins, to control
runoff and sedimentation or meet other applicable standards during construction must be
prepared by an Oregon Registered Professional Engineer. In accordance with these
qualifications, the engineer is responsible for selecting the most appropriate method for
estimating runoff and designing engineered facilities, even if they consist of temporary
construction BMPs not permanent facilities. Note that ESCPs for activities covering 20
acres or more must be prepared by an Oregon Registered Professional Engineer, Oregon
Registered Landscape Architect, or Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment
Control.
Numerous factors may affect the amount of runoff generated from a site,
including:
• Precipitation
• Soil permeability
• Watershed area
• Ground cover
• Antecedent moisture
• Storage in the watershed
• Time parameters
These factors must all be considered in selecting and designing runoff control
BMPs.
Even the best erosion control system cannot perform adequately without
control of runoff. It is particularly important to control concentrated flow
with measures to prevent gullying and scour of exposed soils. These
measures must be in place before the start of the rainy season. Runoff control
practices are BMPs that are designed to control the peak volume and flow rate
and to prevent scour due to concentrated flows.
The following runoff control BMPs are discussed in this section and BMP details are
provided in Appendix D:
RC-1 Slope Drain
RC-2 Energy Dissipator
RC-3 Diversion of Run-on
RC-4 Temporary Diversion Dike
RC-5 Grass-lined Channel (Turf Reinforcement Mat)
RC-6 Trench Drain
RC-7 Drop Inlet
RC-8 Minimizing TSS During In-Stream Construction
RC-9 In-Stream Diversion Techniques
RC-10 In-Stream Isolation Techniques
RC-11 Check Dams
Drainage swales and lined ditches are drainage channels lined with grass, riprap, asphalt,
concrete, or other materials. Drainage swales are designed to convey runoff without
causing erosion.
KEY TERMS
Hydrologic cycle Drainage patterns
Percolation Groundwater
Runoff Run-on
Rational formula Design discharge (Q)
Average rainfall intensity (i) Drainage area
Tributary Culvert and storm drain flow
Antecedent moisture Grassed and lined waterways
Diversions Swales
SUMMARY CHECKLIST
• Precipitation
• Soil permeability
• Watershed area
• Ground cover
• Antecedent moisture
• Storage in the watershed
• Time parameters
Even the best erosion control system cannot perform adequately without
control of runoff.
Runoff measures must be in place before the start of the rainy season.
Runoff management practices are BMPs that are designed to control the peak
volume and flow rate and to prevent scour due to concentrated flows.
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SECTION 5
Summary
This section summarizes a wide range of erosion prevention practices,
materials and methods to be applied during earthwork activities including
structural methods, techniques to prevent erosion on already graded
surfaces, and biotechnical erosion control methods.
The best way to control the discharge of sediment and related pollutants from a
construction site is to prevent erosion from occurring in the first place. Earlier in this
manual the concepts of erosion prevention and sediment control were introduced and it
has been emphasized that erosion prevention methods should be integrated into a project
throughout planning, design, scheduling, and during construction itself. Important
erosion prevention concepts related to planning, design, and scheduling (EP-1) are
discussed in Section 3, such as limiting soil disturbance and establishing vegetative
buffers (EP-2) prior to construction. This section (Section 5) focuses on measures to be
implemented during earthwork activities to control erosion. The following erosion
prevention BMPs are discussed in major subsections of this section:
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• Sheepsfoot rolling
• Track walking
• Scarifying
• Stair stepping
• Imprinting
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• Along the face of exposed and erodible slopes to shorten slope length.
• Along the top of exposed and erodible slopes to spread runoff as sheet
flow.
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Table 5-1
RESULTS OF RAINFALL SIMULATION TESTING FOR SOIL ROUGHNESS
Storm Average
Treatment Measurement Statistic Increase (+)
5-yr (1) 5-yr (2) 10-yr (1) 10-yr (2) 50-yr (1) 50-yr (2)
Decrease (-)
Normalized Erosion Mean 0.06 0.07 0.16 0.09 0.12 0.09
Rate (kg/m2/mm) St. Dev. 0.03 0.07 0.04 0.01 0.02 0.02
% of Smooth 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 0%
Smooth
Runoff (L) Mean 255.7 364.4 419.2 470.3 422.3 611.0
St. Dev. 11.9 35.1 19.6 9.7 10.6 20.3
% of Smooth 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 0%
Normalized Erosion Mean 0.03 0.02 0.03 0.02 0.03 0.02
Rate (kg/m2/mm) St. Dev. 0.03 0.19 0.11 0.12 0.04 0.05
% of Smooth 49% 26% 18% 25% 22% 19% 76% (-)
Imprinted
Runoff (L) Mean 222.3 415.6 380.8 446.6 464.4 501.8
St. Dev. 13.3 96.1 49.4 84.0 21.1 37.8
% of Smooth 87% 114% 91% 95% 110% 82% 4% (-)
Normalized Erosion Mean 0.04 0.07 0.12 0.08 0.15 0.06
Rate (kg/m2/mm) St. Dev. 0.18 0.03 0.07 0.04 0.01 0.09
% of Smooth 66% 99% 75% 88% 121% 71% 12% (-)
Ripped
Runoff (L) Mean 154.2 276.3 387.3 416.3 373.5 443.4
St. Dev. 75.6 17.0 29.8 24.7 7.0 79.2
% of Smooth 60% 76% 92% 89% 88% 73% 19% (-)
Normalized Erosion Mean 0.03 0.03 0.02 0.05 0.06 0.04
Rate (kg/m2/mm) St. Dev. 0.03 0.14 0.06 0.03 0.04 0.03
% of Smooth 58% 46% 14% 56% 51% 46% 55% (-)
Sheepsfoot
Runoff (L) Mean 361.3 374.8 525.1 511.8 503.3 584.4
St. Dev. 11.9 71.3 26.7 22.5 26.0 24.3
% of Smooth 141% 103% 125% 109% 119% 96% 12% (+)
Normalized Erosion Mean 0.04 0.04 0.05 0.04 0.04 0.07
Rate (kg/m2/mm) St. Dev. 0.11 0.05 0.08 0.06 0.09 0.04
Trackwalked
% of Smooth 80% 60% 30% 40% 30% 80% 52% (-)
Runoff (L) Mean 218.7 448.3 460.7 468.5 410.6 579.9
St. Dev. 48.0 26.8 35.5 38.4 49.7 36.0
% of Smooth 86% 123% 110% 100% 97% 95% 2% (+)
Source: Erosion Control Pilot Study Report, Note: Testing was conducted at the San Diego State
Caltrans, June 2000, Table 4-1 University tilting test bed (fill slope) on a 1:2 (V:H) slope
using a clayey sand soil.
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Regional differences in weather and soil microclimate affect the available times
for planting and are extremely important to seed and plant success. Altitude and aspect
must also be taken into consideration. Different seed mixtures may germinate at different
times of the year. Base seeding recommendations on when the seeding is supposed to
occur. Irrigation can extend the planting season and ensure plant success without having
to depend on natural rainfall and soil moisture.
Plants are site specific in terms of their growth requirements, and success is
influenced by:
• Soil moisture
• Soil chemistry
• Temperature
• Sunlight
• Maintenance
• Soil Structure and Disturbance
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During the project planning process, determine how and to what extent soils
will be affected. Minimize the extent of disturbance activities to minimize
impacts to soil outside the project’s construction limits.
Soil Amendments
The decision to use a soil amendment depends on the existing soil and the
desired outcome. Some soil amendments might encourage unwanted exotic vegetation,
while the combination of other soil amendments with native soils might favor native
vegetation. In addition, any local controls or restrictions on specific types of soil
amendments, fertilizers, or slow release polyurethane-coated formulas, must be
considered when selecting an amendment.
Much of a construction site is reduced to subsoil at the surface during a typical
construction project. Subsoil has little or no organic matter, few pore spaces, and few
microorganisms and therefore does not effectively support vegetation establishment and
growth.
It is necessary to have healthy soil to revegetate a site. Revegetation is
necessary to provide slope stabilization, erosion control, biofiltration and infiltration for
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water quality, aesthetics, habitat, and so forth. Revegetation might also be necessary to
meet permit or environmental requirements. As a result, healthy topsoil is an important
component of a construction project.
Following a project that exposes subsoils, soils can be amended to provide
suitable conditions for revegetation. Plant life and water absorption capability require
similar soil conditions: loose, friable soil with the right balance of organic matter,
microorganisms, and minerals. Amendments to consider include topsoil, compost,
fertilizer, mycorrhizal fungi, and biofertilization.
Topsoil (EP-4)
Topsoil is a biologically active system of minerals, organic matter, air, water,
and microorganisms that can take thousands of years to develop. Topsoil nourishes and
provides structural support for plant roots and absorbs water.
The act of stripping off, storing, and redistributing topsoil over disturbed
areas is a beneficial practice for re-establishment of vegetation. The upper
horizons of soil generally contain essential soil bacteria and viable plant
materials such as seeds, roots, or rhizomes. Use of topsoil or “duff”
materials can also augment graded subsoil that may not contain the
necessary nutrients for plant establishment.
• Combining the top 6 inches (15.2 cm) of topsoil with on-site native
vegetation such as native grasses or small shrubs that has been chipped to
facilitate mixing with topsoil. This will contain the seed stock and
nutrients to re-establish the native vegetation without the need for soil
amendments, additional seed, or irrigation. Note this does not refer to
using wood bark chips from large trees or other non-indigenous mulches.
Care should be taken in amending topsoil with native chipped vegetation
so that the resulting organic content of the amended topsoil is appropriate
for the type of vegetation being established. If the percentage of chipped
vegetation is too high, decomposition of chipped vegetation can tie up
nutrients important to plant establishment. Recommended organic content
of amended topsoil is 10 percent and 5 percent for planting beds and turf
areas, respectively.
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• Placing topsoil material on slopes no steeper than 2:1 and compacting it.
Fertilizer
Commercial fertilizers are labeled to document the content’s ratio of nitrogen
(N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) (usually listed in order: N-P-K). These are the
three main elements associated with plant growth and health. Generally, nitrogen
encourages green top growth, while phosphorus and potassium encourage root growth.
Fertilizer is applied in various combinations (for example, 20-20-20 or 10-15-5), as
determined to be necessary by the results of a soil analysis. A 10-15-5 fertilizer would be
comprised of 10 percent nitrogen, 15 percent phosphorus, and 5 percent potassium.
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Mycorrhiza come in about seven types, which differ by kind of fungus, kind of
host plant, and the morphology of the interface. Mycorrhizal fungi plug into the cortex (a
layer of cells found only on relatively young roots), and at the same time pass into the
soil, forming a bridge to the plant. They all provide soil nutrients to the plant and draw
energy compounds from the host.
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Biofertilization (EP-7)
Soils need nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in order to produce healthy
plants. Biofertilizers, which are fertilizers that contain living microorganisms, are
alternatives to chemical fertilizers (N-P-K). Applying biofertilizers, which are readily
available from a variety of soil conditioner manufacturers, increases microbial activity in
soil. With biofertilizers, soil fertility is increased by bacteria that fix nitrogen from the
air into chemicals that aid plant growth, such as nitrate or ammonia. Microbes can also
improve the structure of the soil through secretions that make the soil particles stick
together, forming larger particles and thus increasing soil porosity. Microbes also benefit
plants by providing a natural defense against soil-borne diseases or pathogens.
Biofertilizers offer a more environmentally-friendly alternative to chemical
fertilizers, which are often over-applied, resulting in polluted runoff. Although chemical
fertilizers have their benefits, there are certain characteristics offered by biofertilizers that
the typical N-P-K fertilizers can’t match. Therefore, the chemical approach may be
economical in the short term, but in the long term, biofertilizers may be less expensive.
The best approach may be to combine both chemical fertilizers and biofertility.
This approach can provide vegetation with the jump start needed for immediate growth if
there just isn’t time to adjust to a completely organic application.
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Seed Species
The following criteria should be considered when selecting seed species for
establishing vegetation to stabilize disturbed areas on a construction site:
• Rapidity of establishment.
• Do not use forbs in roadside seed mixes where there are deer, to avoid
animal hazards.
Guidance for seed selection can be obtained from the following Oregon sources:
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The potential for erosion will exist during the establishment stage.
Failure to carefully follow sound plant establishment recommendations
will often result in an inadequate stand of vegetation that provides little
or no erosion control.
Sodding (EP-21)
Sodding is the placement of permanent grass cover that has been grown
elsewhere and brought to the site. Sodding stabilizes an area by immediately covering
the soil surface with grass, thereby protecting the soil from erosion, enhancing
infiltration, filtering sediment and other pollutants, and slowing runoff velocities.
Sodding is appropriate for areas that contained turf prior to construction, or for
any graded or cleared area that might erode and where a permanent, long-lived plant
cover is needed immediately. Examples of locations where sodding may be used include
buffer zones, streambanks, grassed dikes, swales, slopes, outlets, level spreaders, and
filter strips.
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Their use and relative longevity is variable. Table 5-2 compares relevant
criteria that can be used for mulch selection. Application rates and details for each type
are provided in BMPs EP-8, EP-9, and EP-10.
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Table 5-2
COMPARATIVE SELECTION CRITIERIA - MULCHING BMPs
Estimated Relative
Standard Ease of Longevity /
Surface Mulch Category Unit Cost Installed Erosion Control
Application Rate Installation Degradability
Effectiveness
Hydraulic Mulching $900–1,200/ac 50 – 60% 2,000 lbs per acre 2 6 months
Types: Wood, paper, cellulose fiber
Compost Application $900–1,200/ac 40 – 50% (1 inch blanket 3 6 months
$7,000-10,000/ac 95 - 99% application) 3 12 months
$10,000-15,000/ac 95 - 99% (2 inch blanket 3 12-18 months
application)
(3 inch blanket
application)
Straw Mulching $1,800–2,100/ac 90 – 95% 2 tons per acre 3 6 months
Types: Rice and wheat
Wood Chip $900–1,200/ac Unk 3 24 months
Types: Blanket
Hydraulic Matrices $1,000-2,000/ac 65 - 99% 2,000 lbs/ac
Types: Wood mulch + Granular or mulch 2 6-12 months
liquid binder + 10% tackifier 2 3-6 months
Paper mulch + Granular or 2 3-6 months
liquid binder
Cellulose mulch + binder
Bonded Fiber Matrices $5,000–6,500/ac 90 – 99% 3,500 – 4,000 3 6-12 months
lbs/ac
Erosion Control Blankets and Mats
Types: Biodegradable
Jute $6,000–7,000/ac 65 – 70% N/A 4 12-18 months
Curled Wood Fiber $8,000–10,500/ac 90 – 99% N/A 4 12 months
Straw $8,000–10,500/ac 90 – 99% N/A 4 12 months
Wood Fiber $8,000–10,500/ac 90 – 99% N/A 4 6-12 months
Coconut Fiber $13,000–14,000/ac 90 – 99% N/A 4 24-36 months
Coconut Fiber Net $30,000–33,000/ac 90 – 99% N/A 4 24-36 months
Straw Coconut $10,000–12,000/ac 90 – 99% N/A 4 18-24 months
Non-Biodegradable
Plastic Netting $2,000–2,200/ac < 50% N/A 4 24 months
Plastic Mesh $3,000–3,500/ac 75 – 80% N/A 4 24 months
Synthetic Fiber w/Netting $34,000–40,000/ac 90 – 99% N/A 4 permanent
Bonded Synthetic Fibers $45,000–55,000/ac 90 – 99% N/A 5 permanent
Combination Synthetic $30,000–36,000/ac 85 – 99% N/A 5 variable
and Biodegradable Fibers
Criteria Definition
Unit Cost Installed: Cost of materials and labor to effect installation on a per acre basis
Relative Erosion Control: Reduction in soil loss when mulch is compared to bare soil (control) under similar conditions of soil, slope length
and steepness and rainfall simulation
Ease of Installation: Ratings range from 1 (relatively easy or few steps required for application/installation) to 5 (labor intensive or
numerous steps required for application/installation)
Longevity/Degradability: Functional longevity in terms of erosion control effectiveness
Source: Erosion Control Pilot Study Report, Caltrans, June 2000, and Soil Stabilization for Temporary Slopes, Caltrans 1999.
Adapted and Updated January 2005
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4. Apply seed, fertilizer, and mulch in a two-step process, with seed and
fertilizer applied in the first step, and the mulch applied over the seed in a
second step;
5. Use mulches with some form of tackifying agent to hold them on the soil;
6. Be aware that mulches applied at higher elevations on the north sides of
slopes may hold soil temperatures down in the spring and slightly retard
germination and growth; and,
7. Re-apply as necessary due to weathering - be prepared to budget for two
seasons of inspection and maintenance.
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Their use and relative longevity is variable. Table 5-3 compares relevant
criteria that can be used for soil binder selection. Application rates and descriptions for
each type are provided in BMP EP-11.
BFMs are typically applied at rates from 1.5 to 2 tons/acre (3,400 to 4,500 kg/ha)
based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
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Table 5-3
COMPARATIVE SELECTION CRITERIA – SOIL BINDERS
Soil Binder Unit Cost Relative Degradability / Water Ease of Mode of Effect on Drying
(with out mulch) Installed Erosion Longevity Quality Cleanup Application Runoff Time
Control Impact (hours)
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2. Biotechnical systems are strong initially and grow stronger with time as
the vegetation becomes established. Biotechnical erosion control systems
may withstand heavy rainfall immediately after installation. Even if
initial vegetation dies, its plant material and surface residue continues to
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7. Biotechnical erosion control systems are often more cost effective than the
use of vegetative or structural components alone. Labor costs may be
higher due to the cost of harvesting and handling plant materials, while
material costs are often correspondingly lower.
Biotechnical erosion control practices are limited by the available soil medium
for plant growth; rocky or gravelly slopes may lack sufficient fines or moisture to support
plant growth and hard pans or compacted soils may prevent the required root growth.
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Live stakes do not initially provide erosion control. They work best if used in
conjunction with other erosion prevention techniques during establishment period.
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over fiber rolls for slope interruption where it is feasible and desirable to establish shrubs on
the slope using biotechnical erosion control techniques. Fascine drains can be used on wet
slopes where there is evidence of subsurface seepage that is exacerbating erosion control
problems.
The condition of adjacent sites, including identifying successful plant species,
growth form, and soil types should be assessed and compared to conditions on the
construction site prior choosing fascine plant species.
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KEY TERMS
Erosion Control Source Control
Best Management Practice (BMP) Turbidity
Soil Roughening Sheepsfoot Roller
Trackwalking Imprinting
Biotechnical Erosion Control Soil Bioengineering
Fiber Rolls Wattles
Fascines Brushlayering
Live Staking Soil Amendments
Topsoil Subsoil
Compost N-P-K
Mycorrhizal Fungi Biofertilization
Annual Perennial
Legume pH
Mulch Hydraulic Mulch
Soil Stabilizer Bonded Fiber Matrix (BFM)
Rolled Erosion Control Product (RECP) Biodegradable
Synthetic Maintenance
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SUMMARY CHECKLIST
Erosion Prevention is any practice that protects the soil surface and prevents the
soil particles from being detached by rainfall or wind. Erosion control,
therefore, is a source control that treats the soil as a resource that has value and
should be kept in place.
Whenever possible, the primary protection at the site should be erosion
controls, with sediment controls used as a secondary system.
A greater emphasis on erosion controls and other source controls is required for
sites that discharge to sensitive areas and for sites with the potential to violate
Oregon Water Quality Standards for turbidity.
During construction, storm water runoff should be directed away from disturbed
areas.
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nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) (usually listed in order:
N-P-K).
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The most frequent cause of BMP failure is poor maintenance. BMPs should be
operated and maintained using specific guidelines and procedures
SECTION 6
SEDIMENT CONTROL
Summary
This section describes sediment control measures as passive systems that
rely on filtering or settling the particles out of the water or wind that is
transporting them. The most critical aspect of sediment control BMPs in a
comprehensive erosion and sediment control plan is the need for their
continuous monitoring, operation and maintenance.
Compost berm being applied in combination Brush filters being constructed for
with gravel bags as perimeter control. perimeter control.
These barriers are designed for sheet flow, not concentrated flow, and must
never be placed across a stream or channel. Therefore, the topography and drainage
patterns are important considerations in the design of the linear barriers. Barriers should
be placed on the same contour, and it is important that barriers be properly installed and
keyed into the soil to prevent undermining (i.e. flow passing under the barrier). For
sediment fence in particular, the contributory drainage area should not exceed 100 square
feet per lineal foot of fence.
It is important to select the correct BMP for
the intended application, particularly for the use of sand
bags versus gravel bags. Sand bags are much less
permeable than gravel bags and are appropriate when
used to block and contain non-storm water flows (e.g.,
discharges from concrete saw cutting) but can result in
flooding when used to control storm water flows.
Similarly, it is important to understand that
straw or hay bales are very dense and typically do not
filter flow. Instead, they cause water to pond and spill
over the top of the barrier. Some local governments may not approve straw or hay bale
barriers as a BMP.
Undercut lots can provide an effective sediment retention area. By undercutting
sidewalks, parkways, or lots early in the construction process there is room to store
runoff and sediment in the area that is below the curb and prevent it from entering the
gutter.
Gravel bags and other devices that allow filtration should be used for
sediment control applications where the goal is to slow water and promote
ponding behind the barrier but still allow flow through the device to discharge
with a reduced flooding potential.
Sediment basins are typically not recommended for sites with fine-grained
soils such as silts and clays, because these soils will stay in suspension for a
long time. It may be infeasible to hold the water long enough for fine-
grained suspended sediment to settle out of suspension. Additionally, water
that is left standing for more than 48 hours may become a potential
mosquito breeding area.
Sediment basins must be cleaned out when sediment storage zone is half full.
Sediment removed from basins must be placed, compacted, and stabilized to avoid
erosion and re-mobilization. The sediment shall not be deposited downstream from the
embankment or in or adjacent to a stream or floodplain. If there is a potential for the
sediment to be contaminated, it must be tested and disposed of properly.
Certain flocculants may be added to the water in a sediment basin to increase the
suspended sediment settling rate. These flocculants include gypsum (a natural mineral
product), chitosan (a shellfish product), and other materials. Manufacturer’s
recommendations should be followed regarding rate of application and care should be
taken to avoid the release of flocculant from the basin. Always check local municipality
requirements when planning to utilize flocculants.
Electrocoagulation may be used to remove suspended solids and other
contaminants from storm water runoff. It is a process whereby a controlled electrical
current is passed through the water, which causes the suspended particulates to become
charged and bond together to form larger masses that settle to the bottom. This process is
effective on any size of suspended solids, including sub-micron particles, and is typically
combined with filtration to enhance effectiveness.
The removal efficiency of sediment basins can also be enhanced by using
baffles, skimmers, or other devices to lengthen the flow path and/or improve the removal
of suspended particles. The placement of baffles in a sediment basin creates a longer
flow path through the basin, which results in a longer holding time, which results in
increased settling of particulates. A skimmer is a device that is attached to the sediment
basin outlet in lieu of a slotted riser, and floats on the water’s surface above the settling
zone. The skimmer has a designed orifice size that drains water out of the pond at a
specific rate.
The basin configuration also has an effect on performance. To improve the
sediment trapping efficiency of the basin, the effective flow length should be twice the
effective width. This basin shape may be attained by properly selecting the site of the
basin or by the use of baffles.
Washing of sediment from the public right-of-way shall be prohibited. If not mixed with
debris or trash the removed sediment may be used on the project site or deposed of at an
approved disposal site.
When necessary, wheels shall be
cleaned to remove sediment prior to entrance
onto public rights-of-way (see SC-11). The
wheel wash, which should be incorporated
with a stabilized construction entrance, must
be designed and constructed/manufactured
for anticipated traffic loads. It may be a
drive-through facility or a hose and wash
pad. It is important to provide a drainage
conveyance that will convey the runoff from
the wash area to a sediment trapping device.
All employees, subcontractors, and others that leave the site with mud-caked tires and/or
under-carriages should use the wheel wash facility.
The most frequent cause of BMP failure is poor maintenance. The BMPs should
be operated and maintained using specific guidelines and procedures.
Maintenance guidelines are summarized in Section 8. Detailed maintenance
guidelines are provided in the BMP details in Appendix F. In addition to the
maintenance guidelines in the BMP specifications, check local agency
requirements.
KEY TERMS
Sediment Control Passive system
Filtering Settling
Sediment trap Sediment basin
Retention Detention
Trap efficiency Flocculent
Linear barriers Perimeter controls
Permeability Inlet filters
Stabilized construction entrance Wheel wash
Straw bales Sediment fence
Fiber rolls Gravel bag berms
Sand bag barriers Gravel barriers
Compost berms and socks
SUMMARY CHECKLIST
Sediment basins are typically not recommended for sites with fine-grained
soils such as silts and clays, because these soils will stay in suspension for a
long time.
Water that is left standing for more than 48 hours may become a potential
mosquito breeding area.
SECTION 7
NON-STORM WATER POLLUTION CONTROLS
Summary
This section defines and identifies ESCP requirements for non-storm water
pollution controls and summaries individual control measures.
The NPDES storm water regulations for construction sites require that BMPs
be included in the ESCP for control of non-storm water discharges. These
BMPs must be in-place throughout the grading and construction phases.
The NPDES 1200-C General Permit requires that the following non-storm water
pollution control measures be included on the ESCP where applicable. Note that local
jurisdictions may have specific requirements regarding non-storm water pollution
controls.
General Work
Specific Work Activity/Products
Activity/Products With Associated Visible Associated Non-Visible
With Potential
Potential Pollutant Indicator Potential Pollutants
Storm Water Pollutants
Storm Water Pollutants
Adhesives • Adhesives, glues, resins, epoxy Oily sheen or other Phenolics, formaldehydes,
synthetics, PVC cement discoloration from some asbestos, benzene, phenols
• Caulks, sealers, putty, sealing agents products. and naphthalene
and
• Coal tars (naphtha, pitch)
Asphalt paving/curbs • Hot and cold mix asphalt Oil sheen Oil, petroleum distillates
Cleaners • Polishes (metal, ceramic, tile) Discoloration / plume from Metals, acidity/alkalinity,
• Etching agents some products chromium
General Work
Specific Work Activity/Products
Activity/Products With Associated Visible Associated Non-Visible
With Potential
Potential Pollutant Indicator Potential Pollutants
Storm Water Pollutants
Storm Water Pollutants
Painting • Paint thinners, acetone, methyl ethyl Paint plume VOCs, metals, phenolics and
ketone, stripper paints, lacquers, mineral spirits
varnish, enamels, turpentine, gum
spirit, solvents, dyes, stripping
pigments and sanding
Planting / Vegetation • Vegetation control Mulch, sediment, BOD, fertilizers, pesticides,
Management (pesticides/herbicides) vegetation herbicides, nutrients
• Planting (nitrogen, phosphorous, and
potassium) acidity/ alkalinity,
• Plant maintenance metals, aluminum sulfate,
• Vegetation removal sulfur
Plumbing • Solder (lead, tin), flux (zinc chloride), None Lead, copper, zinc and tin
pipe fitting
• Galvanized metal in nails, fences,
and electric wiring
Pools/fountains • Chlorinated water Non-storm water Chlorine or other disinfectant
discharges
Removal of existing structures • Demolition of asphalt, concrete, Sediment, other Toxics (paint strippers,
masonry, framing, roofing, metal particulates solvents, adhesives), trace
structures. metals (galvanized metal,
painted surfaces, preserved
wood),
Roofing • Flashing Debris, slurry plume Oil, petroleum distillates
• Saw cut slurries (tile cutting)
• Shingle scrap and debris
Sanitary waste • Portable toilets Visible sanitary waste Bacteria, BOD, pathogens
• Disturbance of existing sewer lines.
Soil preparation/amendments • Use of soil additives/amendments Mulch, sediment Soil amendments
Solid waste • Litter, trash and debris Plastic, paper, cigarettes,
• Vegetation wood products, steel,
vegetation waste, etc
Utility line testing and flushing • Hydrostatic test water Non-storm water Chlorine
• Pipe flushing discharge, sediment
Vehicle and equipment use • Equipment operation Oil sheen, sediment Total petroleum
• Equipment maintenance hydrocarbons, coolants,
benzene and derivatives
• Equipment washing
• Equipment fueling
The following non-storm water pollutant control BMPs are discussed in this
section and BMP details are provided in Appendix G:
Sanitary and septic waste management controls are procedures and practices to
minimize or eliminate the discharge of construction site sanitary/septic waste materials to
the storm drain system or to watercourses.
KEY TERMS
Non-storm water Material storage
Spill prevention Waste management
Equipment cleaning Fueling and maintenance
Paving Concrete
Contaminated Ponded water
SUMMARY CHECKLIST
The NPDES storm water regulations for construction sites also require that
BMPs be included in the ESCP or control of non-storm water discharges. These
BMPs must be in-place throughout the grading and construction phases.
These BMPs must be in-place throughout the grading and construction phases.
SECTION 8
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Summary
This section presents site inspection requirements for the NPDES 1200-C
General Permit as well as additional guidelines for conducting an initial site
walk-through, vegetation monitoring, and reporting. Common BMP
installation mistakes and maintenance guidelines are also presented.
All disturbed areas of the site, areas for material storage, locations where
vehicles enter or exit the site, and all the erosion, sediment, and pollution controls that
are identified as part of the plan must be inspected. Problem areas must be documented,
and control measures identified and implemented immediately. This effort must continue
for the duration of time it takes for the site to be finally stabilized and any permanent
measures required by the ESCP are in place and performing adequately.
BMPs must be in good operating condition until the area they protect has been
completely stabilized and the construction activity is complete. In the absence of
significant storm events, all monitoring points must be inspected by the permittee in
accordance with any schedule required by the local agency and before any predicted,
significant rainfall.
Inspections by local jurisdictions with oversight responsibility as DEQ agents,
or as authorized by local ordinances, should be conducted throughout the project at a
frequency dictated by the agreement between DEQ and the jurisdiction, or by local
policies and procedures.
• Any areas of erosion, including the type of erosion (such as sheet erosion,
rilling, gullying, localized scour, etc.)
• Improper calculation of amount of mulch needed • Monitor for short-term performance (longevity of
resulting in inadequate coverage. It is important to surface treatment) and long-term performance
calculate the slope area and take into account the (vegetation establishment).
roughness, which can affect how much mulch is • Loss of mulch material and seed through sheet or rill
needed to obtain the specified application rate. erosion should be repaired through reapplication.
• Improperly applying bonded fiber matrix. If the • General surface slippage or lack of vegetation
matrix is not applied from multiple directions, it can establishment should be investigated and treated on a
EP-8 Mulches result in “shadowing,” which results in inadequate site specific basis.
coverage of the soil.
• Reapply sufficient thickness of straw to cover soil and
• Placing straw1 without properly crimping, netting, or seeds.
tackifying the straw to the ground. This can result in
loose straw becoming mobilized by wind or water,
and an inadequately protected slope.
• Insufficient straw depth to prevent erosion of soil and
loss of seeds.
• Application in areas of concentrated flow and at less • Check compost thickness and inspect for signs of rill or
2
EP-9 Compost Blankets than optimal thicknesses (see BMP for gully erosion.
recommendations). • Re-apply compost blanket to maintain specified
1
Local straw sources should be used. State agriculture authority may disallow use of straw from elsewhere due to spread of noxious weeds, disease, and other concerns.
2
To prevent cross-contamination of storm water, compost source materials should be derived from “green” feedstocks that are free of contaminants (e.g., manure, treated
or painted wood), and preferably certified accordingly.
3
Straw bales are considered to be one of the least preferred BMPs due to rigorous maintenance requirements. In addition, some jurisdictions don’t allow the use of straw
bale dikes.
4
Designed and maintained to drain or de-water an area (French Drain); not an underground injection control (UIC) device. Discharge must be to surface.
KEY TERMS
Best Management Practice (BMP) Documentation
Performance Comprehensive
Inspection Monitoring
Operation Maintenance
Rainy Season Significant Rainfall Event
Frequency of Inspection Permanent Measures
Site Walkthrough Deficiency
Maintenance Guidelines
SUMMARY CHECKLIST
BMPs should be monitored before, during, and after significant storm events.
During grading and construction, the permittee is responsible for maintaining
the storm water pollution control measures.
In accordance with the NPDES 1200-C General Permit, active sites must be
inspected by the permittee or the permittee’s representative (typically the
contractor) daily during storm water or snowmelt runoff and within 24 hours
after any storm event greater than 0.5 inches in a 24-hour period. Active sites
must be inspected at least every 7 days during periods of no runoff. Any site
that is inactive for greater than 7 days must be inspected every two weeks.
Exposed areas must be stabilized and inspected before a site is left in an
inactive state.
An initial site inspection should be conducted to verify that all BMPs have
been implemented in the field, that erosion is being controlled, and that
sediment and other pollutants are not being transported off-site or into critical
areas on-site. Critical inspection points should be identified on the initial site
walk.
During rainfall events, the permittee’s inspector should be empowered to call
out crews to inspect and immediately repair the erosion and sediment control
measures. Appropriate materials and equipment should be kept on hand to
enable a quick and rapid response. Also, some municipalities have specific
“on-hand” emergency supply requirements that must be followed.
Vegetation establishment should be monitored during BMP site inspections
until the vegetation reaches maturity and is providing the anticipated erosion
control effectiveness.
Inspection reports should be prepared during each inspection conducted by the
permittee or contractor. Reports should include information on damages or
deficiencies, maintenance or repair activities, monitoring information, and
vegetation establishment. Inspection reports should be kept for a period of
three years after completion of final site stabilization.