With the coming of spring comes an increase in construction and property improvement projects. Whether a business, property developer, or homeowner, controlling waste and debris on the job is critical to protecting our drinking water resources.
Some of the lesser known construction topics that impact water quality are erosion and sediment. Soil that is disturbed either from land clearing, vehicle traffic or other construction activities can carry contamination off site, mixed with water into a storm drain, or simply moved to another location on site.
Bare soil itself is also a hazard. Loss of rich topsoil leads to less protective vegetation and increased sediment that impact water quality. The Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District (MCSWCD) provides many great resources for compliance with Indiana’s Construction Stormwater General Permitting process as well as free technical advice and site visits.
Whether or not the permitting applies to you, here are a few ideas to keep your soil temporarily stable and minimize erosion. Non-vegetative areas should be temporarily stabilized if the area remains inactive for more than seven days (ie, you have stopped work in the area).
- Mulch – straw, hay, wood chips (crimped, anchored or tacked to stay in place)
- Compost mulch – be sure the compost is free of weeds or other material toxic to plant health
- Erosion control blankets – mulch which is incorporated within a biodegradable netting
As you are planning your erosion control, think about your slope and how water is moving. Loose unanchored mulch, for example, has greater potential to wash away in areas of steep slope or concentrated flow. Methods such as erosion control blankets are a better option in these types of areas.
Erosion may not immediately bring to mind water quality impacts, but any activity that disturbs the natural landscape should be considered and planned before work begins. As you work, monitor unexpected events and reach out to us or the MCSWCD to keep your job site and our ecosystems safe.
