clean and clear

erosion

On many construction sites, relatively large areas of soil can be exposed to the erosive effects of wind and rain due to extensive earthwork. Eroded sediment may be easily transported by stormwater runoff to streams, lakes, ponds and wetlands. Rates of erosion on an uncontrolled construction site can be over 500 times that of the same land under a natural vegetative cover, meaning that the sediment generated over many years from forest or pasture could be produced in a single season on a poorly managed construction site.

The water quality of streams, lakes, and wetlands can be negatively impacted by the input of eroded sediment. Sediment entering streams can directly cause a harmful alteration or destruction of habitats of fish and other aquatic organisms, and can reduce the productivity of aquatic plants. In addition, sediment serves as a vehicle for the transport of chemicals that diminish water quality. Phosphorus, for example, which can contribute to excessive algae growth, is commonly transported by being bound to mobile sediment.

Excessive sediment loading can also contribute to stream channel instability and streambank erosion, escalating sediment build-up in streams and loss of storage in lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. The physical, chemical, and biological impacts of eroded sediment in turn decrease the recreational value and our enjoyment of Vermont's waters.

In 2006, the Vermont DEC Stormwater Section published new technical and educational materials aimed at assisting consultants, land owners, and conctractors in developing suitable strategies for limiting erosion on construction sites and preventing sediment from reaching waters of the state. Projects that will disturb 1 or more acres of land must now obtain stormwater discharge permits and implement Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control Plans.

The Vermont Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control Field Guide (PDF) is designed to assist contractors with many of the common erosion prevention and sediment control practices found on construction sites.

The Low Risk Site Handbook (PDF) is designed specifically for use on projects where the location of the project and the nature of the construction activities minimize the risk of having a surface water quality impact. It contains basic measures that can be implemented by non-professionals.

The Vermont Standards and Specifications for Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control (updated in 2008 PDF) is the main technical resource provided by DEC for use by consultants in developing site speicifc Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control Plans for larger construction projects.