Erosion and sediment control might not sound glamorous, but it plays a critical role in protecting our environment. It ensures legal compliance and keeps construction projects running smoothly. Whether you're a contractor, developer, or environmental enthusiast, understanding the basics of erosion and sediment control is vital for safeguarding our waters and maintaining project efficiency.
Why Do We Care About Erosion and Sediment Control?
Did you know that sediment is one of the most common pollutants in water? Canada’s Fisheries Act prohibits the release of harmful substances into fish-bearing waters. This emphasizes the critical importance of erosion and sediment control measures. Sediment and suspended solids can wreak havoc on aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, it is essential to take proactive measures to prevent erosion at its source.
Environment and Climate Change Canada administers section 36, a key pollution prevention provision. This section prohibits the deposit of deleterious substances into waters frequented by fish, unless authorized by regulations under the Fisheries Act or other federal legislation.
Understanding ESC and BMPs: The Acronyms Explained
Let's break down some important terms:
ESCs (Erosion and Sediment Controls)
- Erosion control minimizes the potential for erosion.
- Sediment control reduces the chance of eroded soil being transported or deposited beyond the construction site limits.
BMPs (Best Management Practices)
- BMPs are effective methods designed to prevent or reduce non-point source pollution. They help achieve water quality goals by including measures to prevent pollution and mitigate its effects.
The Foundation of Erosion and Sediment Control
Pre-Project Planning: The First Step
Good erosion and sediment control (ESC) practices start with thoughtful planning. Here are some key planning strategies:
Analyze the construction schedule: Aim to complete earthworks during drier months whenever possible.
Align strategies with budgets: Develop practical strategies that are budget-friendly and meet timelines.
Maintain regular inspections: Continuously inspect and maintain your ESC measures throughout the project.
Erosion Control: Stopping the Problem Before It Starts
Erosion control is essential for keeping soil in place and preventing it from becoming a pollutant. Some Best Management Practices for erosion control include:
Reduce slope steepness or length.
Compact or track exposed soil.
Cover soil with erosion control blankets, vegetation, or bonded fiber matrices.
Manage water flow: Divert, control, or contain runoff effectively.
Popular Erosion Control Solutions
Erosion Control Blankets (ECBs)
Made from materials like coir or straw matting, these blankets provide long-term stability to slopes.
Often used with seeds underneath to promote vegetation growth.
Hydroseeding and Bonded Fiber Matrices (BFMs)
Pros: Affordable, fast-growing, and visually appealing.
Cons: May compete with native plant regeneration.
Real-World Examples of Erosion Control
Here are some real-world examples showcasing effective erosion control practices.
| Before | After |
| ------ | ----- |
| Before: An uncapped laydown area with exposed slopes leads to sedimentation issues. | After: The solution? Capping the area, raising the road, and extending rip-rap for slope stability. |
Another example:
| Before | After |
| ------ | ----- |
| Before: Recently disturbed slopes without energy dissipation. | After: Adding rock linings and energy dissipation structures solves the problem. |
Sediment Control: Catching What Escapes
If erosion control measures fail—or aren’t feasible—sediment control steps in to capture loose soil before it pollutes waterways. The Sediment Control Triangle emphasizes the interplay of three factors: energy, water, and sediment. All three must be present for sediment control to be necessary.
Sediment Control BMPs
Silt Fences
Installed at the base of slopes, these barriers trap sediment.
Proper installation and ongoing maintenance are crucial for effectiveness.
Catch Basin Protection
Catch basin "donuts" or curb inlet filters prevent sediment from entering storm drains.
They are a last line of defense to protect waterways from sediment, debris, and pollutants.
Spring Berms
These structures dissipate stormwater energy to prevent rill and gully formation.
Sediment Ponds and Tanks: A Critical Component
For large-scale projects, sediment ponds and tanks are indispensable. They allow sediment to settle out of water before it is released or reused. The design and functionality vary based on site conditions, but they are essential for reducing sediment discharge.
Why It All Matters: Beyond Compliance
Erosion and sediment control aren’t just about following regulations—it’s about protecting the environment and enhancing public perception. Additionally, it reduces costs. Key benefits of effective erosion and sediment control include:
Avoiding fines and legal actions.
Preventing stop-work orders.
Mitigating harm to aquatic life.
Improving site efficiency by maintaining clean access and egress points.
Reducing costly rework caused by sediment damage.
A clean site is not just a productive site; it’s a responsible one. By implementing effective erosion and sediment control practices, we can build a better future for our communities and our planet.
Grant Lindemulder - LinkedIn
BA Environmental Management
Environmental Specialist | Special Projects Manager | BMP Supplies