While erosion can damage the quality of the soil, the larger environmental concern arises when that soil becomes dislodged, which leads to sedimentation. As sediment gets washed away by stormwater, it can mix with local environments, leading to water turbidity and other harmful effects.
Naturally, any construction project that involves land disturbance, land development, or a high amount of foot traffic will lead to some kind of erosion.
Contractors are often legally required to develop erosion control plans that mitigate soil erosion and sedimentation. This guide will discuss the importance of erosion control plans and best practices to help you begin developing one internally.
What is an Erosion Control Plan?
An erosion control plan is a strategic document that outlines various best management practices for limiting soil erosion and sediment runoff.
Erosion control plans include a combination of physical, vegetative, and structural best practices—such as silt fences, sediment basins, erosion control blankets, and vegetative cover—that stabilize soil and limit erosion.
In many cases, contractors that apply for a Construction General permit are required to develop a stormwater management plan that includes an erosion control plan. Additionally, many states and municipalities will require an erosion control plan to apply for applicable permits to begin land disturbance projects.
The Importance of an Erosion Control Plan for Contractors
Developing an erosion control plan is essential for any land disturbance project for the following reasons.
1. Legal Compliance and Avoiding Fines
In many instances, an erosion control plan will be required by the EPA, your state agency, or a local municipality to disturb land or discharge stormwater runoff.
The federal government controls all stormwater discharge through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), which means that an erosion control plan is required for an NPDES permit.
Having a plan will ensure legal compliance and help you avoid costly fines.
2. Protecting the Environment
The environmental impact of construction projects can be substantial, particularly regarding erosion and sediment runoff. Sediment pollution can choke waterways, reduce oxygen levels, and block sunlight, disrupting plant and animal life.
An erosion control plan minimizes these negative impacts by implementing measures to preserve soil in place and block or filter runoff as it is being discharged.
Environmental preservation is essential for contractors looking to maintain a positive reputation and relationship with their community.
3. Maintaining Soil Integrity and Reducing Land Degradation
Erosion causes the loss of valuable topsoil, which contains essential nutrients and organic matter necessary for plant growth. For construction sites, erosion can lead to unstable ground conditions, making it difficult to complete work safely and efficiently. An erosion control plan helps maintain soil integrity by using techniques such as silt fences, sediment basins, and vegetative cover to stabilize the soil and reduce runoff.
In particular, reducing land degradation is important for projects where future landscaping is required, such as agricultural projects or even buildings that require good landscaping. Preventing soil loss also helps expedite revitalization efforts and saves contractors money when investing in seeding techniques.
4. Protecting Site Safety
Unstable soil is difficult to work with and can lead to slips, trips, falls, and even mudslides. An erosion control plan helps to keep soil stable, reducing the likelihood of accidents and improving overall site safety.
5. Minimizing Project Delays and Costs
Erosion-related issues can lead to significant project delays. For example, excessive sediment runoff can clog drainage systems, leading to flooding that damages equipment and disrupts work. Furthermore, contractors may be required to halt work to address environmental violations or perform emergency erosion control measures. These delays can increase labor and material costs, putting pressure on project budgets.
By proactively managing erosion, contractors can keep the project on schedule and avoid unexpected expenses.
Best Practices for Erosion Control
An erosion control plan can be developed internally, although we recommend working with a qualified environmental consultant.
Regardless, an effective erosion control plan should include the following strategies to minimize soil loss and manage sediment runoff.
- Vegetative Cover: By planting grass or other vegetation, contractors can stabilize the soil and reduce the impact of raindrops, which can dislodge soil particles. Temporary ground covers, such as straw or erosion control blankets, can also be used to protect soil until permanent vegetation is established.
- Mulching: Mulching is another effective technique for protecting exposed soil. By applying a layer of organic material such as straw, wood chips, or compost, contractors can reduce runoff and promote moisture retention, which encourages plant growth.
- Sediment Basins: Sediment basins are temporary ponds that allow sediment-laden runoff to collect and settle before the water is released. They are particularly useful on larger construction sites where significant volumes of runoff are expected.
- Silt Fences and Barriers: Silt fences are a common erosion control measure that prevents sediment from leaving the construction site. They are installed around the perimeter of disturbed areas to capture soil before it can enter nearby water bodies or drainage systems.
- Phasing Construction Activities: Planning construction activities to minimize the amount of exposed soil at any one time can help reduce erosion. Contractors can significantly decrease erosion risk by phasing construction and stabilizing disturbed areas as soon as possible.
Long-Term Benefits of Erosion Control
The benefits of an erosion control plan extend beyond the construction phase of a project. By taking measures to prevent erosion, contractors help ensure the site’s long-term stability and thereby reduce their efforts to stabilize the site.
For projects that require long-term use of the topsoil, an erosion control plan can limit the degradation and help the soil retain its proper nutrients.
Furthermore, effective erosion control contributes to better water quality, reduces the need for costly post-construction repairs, and supports sustainable development. By proactively addressing erosion with an erosion control plan, contractors can leave a positive legacy, benefiting both the environment and the community in the coming years.
FAQs
What are the consequences of not having an erosion control plan?
Failure to have an erosion control plan can lead to fines, legal action, work stoppages, increased project costs, and environmental damage. It can also negatively impact a contractor’s reputation and future project opportunities.
How does erosion control contribute to site safety?
Erosion control measures help maintain stable ground conditions, reducing the risk of slips, trips, falls, and other hazards on construction sites. Stabilized soil is safer for workers, machinery, and any personnel accessing the site.