What is Erosion and Sediment Control?

Outlet for Sediment Trap

Sediment Trap

Diversion Dike

Silt Fence

During site development, it’s important to have and maintain a good erosion and sediment control (ESC) plan. It's not only wise to have one, but chances are your locality requires you to have one because of the property destruction and drinking water pollution that can occur. Erosion and sediment control plans are a combination of various temporary installations that either contain, filter, or stabilize sediment during land-disturbing activities. The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) states that these measures help "prevent soil movement or loss, enhance project aesthetics and eliminate appreciable damage to off-site receiving channels, property and natural resources."

All jobs sites must have, at minimum, a silt fence for catching runoff sediment, and it must be installed prior to development. More effective methods for erosion control include diversion dikes and sediment traps for channeling the runoff and settling trapped sediments. Methods for stabilizing sediment include vegetation establishment, in which developers lay either temporary or permanent seeding that’s covered by hay or mulch.  

Does your upcoming development project need an engineered ESC plan? If so, give us a call! Our team is here to provide you with the high-quality civil engineering services your project deserves. Contact us to get started today.