Polluted storm water from construction sites is conveyed to storm sewer systems that ultimately empty into rivers and streams. Sediment from construction sites has been shown to exceed that from agricultural lands by 10 to 20 times, and by 1,000 to 2,000 times from forested land. Although sediment is the primary concern, other contaminants include nutrients, pesticides, oils and grease, concrete truck washout and construction chemicals and debris. Management practices can help prevent erosion and keep sediment runoff to a minimum.

Management practices can be divided into those that prevent erosion from occurring, and those that keep sediment on site after erosion has occurred.  Ohio EPA has developed standards and specifications for multiple erosion and sediment control practices, which have been included in the Rainwater and Development Manual (click here for a full copy).  Links to specific chapters addressing erosion and sediment control practices are listed below.

Chapter 5 — Temporary Runoff Control: includes standards and specifications for the following practices: Rock Check Dam, Slope Drain, Temporary Diversion, Stream Utility Crossing, Temporary Stream Crossing, Water Bar, De-Watering Measures

Chapter 6 — Sediment Control: Includes standards and specifications for the following practices: Sediment Basin, Sediment Trap, Silt Fence, Storm Drain Inlet Protection, Filter Berm, Filter Socks

Chapter 7 — Soil Stabilization: Includes standards and specifications for the following practices: Phased Disturbance, Clearing and Grubbing, Tree and Natural Area Preservation, Construction Entrance, Dust Control, Grade Treatment, Top Soiling, Temporary Seeding, Mulching, Permanent Seeding, Sodding, Temporary Rolled Erosion Control Products (Erosion Control Matting), Turf Reinforcement Matting.