One of the requirements for stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs) is to include an implementation schedule for major construction operations. This includes things like clearing, grubbing, excavating, grading, utility installation, and other similar activities. The Ohio EPA Rainwater and Land Development manual includes a table of what this general sequence should look like: https://epa.ohio.gov/static/Portals/35/storm/technical_assistance/6-24-09RLDCh8.pdf (pg 13) There are steps that should be taken as early in the construction process as possible to avoid problems with sediment and erosion control later in the project. Let’s breakdown those crucial early steps:
Generally, the sooner these controls are implemented, the better the outcome for sediment and erosion management. It’s always better to work proactively rather than to have to fix problems that arise from waiting too long to implement or correct controls. Phased Disturbance is another tool to keep in mind when developing SWPPPs and generating a construction sequence. This practice minimizes the amount of grading done at one time. Planning smaller earth moving efforts allows for parts of the site to remain undisturbed and stabilized while other parts are being actively worked. Planning disturbance in this way helps reduce the amount of sediment that controls manage at one time, which increases the effectiveness of these practices. BMP Spotlight Example from the Field: Early Construction Process Communication and Implementation Monarch Homes and Diggit Excavating met with Warren Co SWCD at a pre-construction meeting with the City of Lebanon where the requirements and sequence of sediment and erosion controls measures were discussed. Since that meeting, the team has been in constant contact with Warren Co SWCD, proving updates on initial groundbreaking and the control installation timelineas well as any changes to controls being used on the construction site. As soon as clearing and grading work was set to begin, there was a proper construction entrance in place and silt fence around the clearing boundaries that was supplemented with a mulch berm from the on-site clearing. The basin was dug as part of the first phase as well. The basin will be temporarily stabilized and have a skimmer installed on the outlet once installed. We asked our friends at Diggit Excavating for their take on how communication has helped with the development process from their perspective:
This is a great example of communication between our agency and developers and contractors on projects and how compliance can begin right out of the gate as a new project begins. This proactive approach helps to avoid many complications later in the construction process.
2 Comments
Wade Brown
4/24/2023 01:25:30 pm
Thank you for the spotlight. We value our relationship with Soil and Water and take our responsibilities seriously!
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11/21/2023 06:55:30 am
This blog is truly fascinating, offering well-crafted and engaging content.
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Urban team BLOGEvery month, the Warren Co SWCD Urban Team dives deep into the world of land development as it relates to stormwater pollution prevention. The blog covers topics like erosion & sediment control best management practices (BMPs), state and local regulations, retention/detention basins, and the conservation of our natural resources. Stay up to date with Development Digest by signing up for WCSWCD Urban eNews!
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