Erosion and Sediment Control Tip #32
There are many Sediment Control Practices that require the
captured sediment to be removed and properly disposed of when ½ of the sediment
storage volume has been reached. First, if you are having to deal with
sediment removal on your construction site, you should look upslope and fix the
erosion control methods and practices. However, if you must remove
sediment, do so without destroying the sediment control practice. Where is the
location for placement of the sediment and how should it be “properly” disposed
of? Most likely the sediment will be saturated. This requires the
material to dry out somewhat before it can be stabilized. Locate a good
area on the jobsite. Preferably a site with good vegetation downslope and
not near a receiving stream. If there is no vegetation that could serve as
a grass filter, then you’ll probably need to install a silt fence to control
the runoff. Stack the removed sediment as much as it will stack and let it
drain. As soon as it is drained to allow spreading, blend the material into the
landscape and vegetate it with permanent vegetation by incorporating the
required lime and fertilizer, and spreading the seed and mulch (See the
Permanent Seeding practice in Alabama’s Blue Book).
Perry L Oakes, PE
Erosion and Sediment Control Program Coordinator
AL Soil and Water Conservation Committee
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