Participant HandbookNorth Central Texas Council of Governments
Inspection of Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Practices
during Construction
Participant Handbook
Fifth Edition
Table of Contents
Preface
Part 1: Introduction, Regulations, and Inspections of Construction Activities
Part 2: Storm Water Best Management Practices for Construction Activities
Appendices: Inspection Forms
Quizzes
Glossary
Reference List
Preface
Land disturbance during construction activities is a large contributor to the
environmental problem of erosion and sedimentation. Understanding the various
methods (best management practices) used to prevent erosion and sedimentation
(E &S) will help developers /contractors and inspectors implement effective E &S controls.
The North Central Texas Council of Governments and its regional consultant have
developed a comprehensive training curriculum to help address the problem of erosion
and sedimentation at construction sites. Though each municipality and agency will
approach the problem somewhat differently, this course provides instruction that is
appropriate to almost all programs.
The purpose of the training program is to instruct participants in the following areas:
• The importance of erosion and sediment controls.
• The environmental problems associated with lack of erosion and sediment controls.
• The causes of erosion and sedimentation.
• The inspection and maintenance of erosion and sediment controls.
Understanding the importance of controlling erosion and sedimentation at construction
sites will help inspectors and developers to comply with regulations, avoid costly
problems, and protect the environment.
Part 1:
Introduction, Regulations, and Inspections of
Construction Activities
Erosion and Sedimentation,
a Three -Part Process
• Erosion is the wearing away of the soil by
forces such as water and wind.
• Surface flow or wind carries loose soil
particles away.
• Sedimentation occurs when the velocity of
wind or water slows to allow eroded
material to settle out.
Important Pointy]
rel
North Central Texas
Council of Governments
Inspection of Storm Water Pollution
Prevention Practices during
Construction
Important Points
• This course provides instruction appropriate to almost all programs;
however, each municipality /agency will approach some things
differently.
I
Goal
• To train municipal
personnel inspecting
storm water pollution
prevention
requirements at
construction sites
using consistent
inspection guidelines
Important Points
• Recognize that storm water pollution control from construction sites is
the responsibility of multiple parties -- developer, engineer, contractor,
and inspector.
♦ The inspector's responsibility includes not only enforcement of
the rules and requirements, but also the facilitation of
compliance.
• Resources to be used in class:
♦ Handbook
Glossary is provided in appendix
♦ Sample Plans
♦ Video
2
Course Outline
• Erosion and sedimentation theory
• Brief overview of regulatory requirements for
construction sites
• Guidelines for municipal personnel inspecting
storm water pollution prevention practices on
construction sites
• Common erosion and sediment control measures
• Proper installation and maintenance of BMPs
Important Points
1, � &kC"1
Why is Construction Identified as a
Problem?
• Construction is a specialized type of
industrial activity
• Intense, varied activities occur in a limited
area
• Erosion and sedimentation are the largest
potential problem from these sites
• Potential exists for other pollutants (such
as debris and on -site chemicals) to reach
waterways
Important Points
4
Erosion and
Sedimentation Theory
• To implement effective E &S controls and
enforce E &S requirements, we need to
understand:
♦ The process of erosion and sedimentation
♦ Factors affecting the rate of erosion
♦ Effects and costs of erosion and sedimentation
♦ Ways to reduce and control storm water pollution from
erosion and sedimentation
Important Points
Factors Affecting
Rate of Erosion
• Rate of erosion due to water depends on:
♦ Type and amount of energy (rainfall and flow)
♦ Length and steepness of slope
♦ Erodibility of soil
♦ Management of land
Important Points
• The extent of erosion depends on:
♦ Amount and velocity of water.
♦ Type of soil:
The erosive forces of water (raindrops or flowing water) or
wind break the natural bonds between soil particles.
♦ Type and amount of soil cover.
Impacts of
Erosion and Sedimentation
• Suspended solids from erosion are the
largest source of pollutants in waterways.
• Effects:
♦ Reduction in fish populations
♦ Transportation of pollutants
♦ Increase in hazard and severity of flooding
• Costly problems are caused by
sedimentation:
♦ Increased maintenance cost to remove sediment
Important Points]
• Erosion is the largest source of pollutants in waterways.
• Effects:
♦ Reduction of fish populations:
Sediments increase turbidity, reduce light penetration,
cover fish spawning area, clog and harm gills and
interfere with their feeding habits.
♦
Transportation of pollutants:
Chemicals such as trace metals, pesticides, phosphorus,
and ammonia are adsorbed and transported by
sediment.
♦ Increase in hazard and severity of flooding:
Sediments clog rivers, decrease reservoir capacity, reduce
recreation and scenic value, as well as increase the
hazard and severity of flooding.
• Costs to correct problems caused by sedimentation:
♦ Maintenance costs to remove sediment from road ditches,
dredge sediments from rivers, lakes and reservoirs and
remove chemicals from the water supply.
♦ Environmental cost of degraded habitats.
8
The Water Quality Act of 1987
• The Clean Water Act was amended in 1987 to require the
implementation of a comprehensive national program for
addressing :storm water pollution
• Regulations cover storm water discharges from certain
construction activities and from Municipal Separate Storm
Sewer Systems (MS4s)
• Regulations have been implemented in two phases
• The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality created
the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES)
program to regulate storm water discharges
Important Points]
0
Storm Water Regulations
• Phase I
♦ Large Construction Activities
• Sites > 5 acres; Administered by TCEQ
♦ Large & Medium MS4 Management Program for Construction
• No size specified; Administered by the MS4
• Phase II
♦ Small Construction Activities
• Sites > 1 acre and < 5 acres; Administered by TCEQ
♦ Small MS4 Construction Site Runoff Control
• Sites > 1 acre; Administered by the MS4
Important Points]
(AC) �
not A MA
10
Large Construction Activity
• All construction activity disturbing > 5 acres
• Regulated since early 90's
• Large construction activities were previously
regulated by EPA under the NPDES
Construction General Permit
• TCEQ issued the TPDES Construction
General Permit TXR150000 effective March 5,
2003
Important Points]
Small Construction Activity
• Construction activity disturbing > 1 acre
and < 5 acres
• Previously unregulated at the federal or
state level in Texas
• Permit coverage currently required under
TPDES Construction General Permit
TXR150000
Important Points]
1
12
21
MS4 Permit Issues
• Phase I cities
♦ Enforce, local ordinances
♦ Refer violators of TPDES Construction General Permit to
TCEQ in accordance with local procedures
• Phase II cities and counties
♦ Develop a plan under the Construction Site Runoff Control
Minimum Measure
♦ Implement plan over 5 year permit term IAW schedule and
enforce local ordinances
♦ Refer violators of TPDES Construction General Permit to
TCEQ in accordance with local procedures
Important Points]
psi
TPDES General Permit for
Construction Activities
• Before construction, operators are required to:
♦ Develop Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP); and
♦ Submit Notice of Intent (for large construction activities) or post
Construction Site Notice (for small construction activities) prior to start of
construction
• The "operator" is either:
♦ the person or persons that have operational control over construction
plans and specifications; or
♦ the person or persons that have day -to -day operational control of those
activities at a construction site
Note: This workbook provides summarized information from the
Construction General Permit and is not intended for use in regulatory
compliance. Rlefer to TPDES General Permit No. TXR150000 for
complete permit requirements.
Important Points]
• Developer /contractor is responsible for NOI, SWPPP and NOT -- not
the City!
• Many cities may require developer /contractor to submit Erosion &
Sedimentation Control Plan and the Storm Water Pollution Prevention
Plan for their review
• This workbook provides summarized information from the
Construction General Permit and is not intended for use in regulatory
compliance. Refer to TPDES General Permit No. TXR150000 for
complete permit requirements.
14
TPDES General Permit for
Construction Activities
• During construction, operators must:
♦ Install and maintain BMPs to prevent and control
pollution
♦ Temporarily or permanently stabilize areas where
construction activities have been suspended or
completed
• Before terminating coverage, operators
must:
♦ Perform final site inspection to ensure that final
stabilization of site is achieved
♦ Remove all temporary measures and
ensure that site is completed per plan
Important Point;]
oU -c -
TPDES General Permit
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan
• Elements of SWPPP:
♦ Site /project information
♦ Best Mlanagement Practices
• Erosion and sediment controls, stabilization practices,
and structural control practices
• Permanent storm water controls
♦ Other controls to minimize pollutants
• Dust, vehicle tracking, waste materials, concrete or
asphalt batch plants, velocity dissipation
♦ Regular maintenance and inspection of BMPs
Important Points]
VV - 4`14,
16
ite/Project Information
• Site description, project and soil
conditions
• Anticipated construction schedule and
phasing of BMPs
• Detailed Site Map
• Copy of the Construction General Permit
Important Points]
• Site Plan should show:
♦ drainage patterns and approximate slopes anticipated after major
grading activities;
♦ areas where soil disturbance will occur;
♦ locations of all major structural controls either planned or in place;
♦ locations where stabilization practices are expected to be used;
♦ locations of off -site material, waste, borrow, fill, or equipment storage
areas;
♦ surface waters (including wetlands) either adjacent or in close
proximity;
♦ locations where storm water discharges from the site directly to a
surface water body;
♦ the location of asphalt plants and concrete plants providing support to
the construction site;
♦ the name of receiving waters at or near the site that will be disturbed or
that will receive discharges from disturbed areas of the project.
SWPPP
Best Management Practices
• Erosion and sediment controls, stabilization
practices, and structural control practices
♦ Must be designed to retain sediment to the extent practicable
♦ Includes retention of existing vegetation, temporary or permanent
vegetative cover, mulching erosion control matting, diversion
dikes, sediment traps and basins, check dams, silt fence, etc.
• Permanent storm water controls
♦ Measures installed during construction that will control pollutants
in discharges after construction operations have been completed
♦ Could include wet ponds, constructed wetlands, buffer strips, etc
Important Points]
18
SWPPP
Other Controls
• Minimize off -site vehicle tracking and dust
generation
• Controls to reduce pollutants from construction and
waste materials
♦ Construction materials storage and disposal areas
♦ Equipment storage /maintenance /cleaning areas
• Controls to reduce pollutants from concrete and
asphalt plants
• Velocity dissipation devices to provide non - erosive
flows in storm water discharges
Important Points' I
19
SWPPP
Maintenance & Inspection
• Maintenance
♦ Erosion and sediment control measures and other protective
measures must be maintained in effective operating condition
♦ Maintenance on poorly performing BMPs must be conducted prior to
the next storm event or as soon as practicable
♦ Maintenance of BMPs that have been intentionally disabled or
removed must be replaced or corrected immediately upon discovery
• Personnel provided by the operator must inspect:
♦ Disturbed areas that have not been finally stabilized
♦ Materials storage areas
♦ Erosion and sediment control measures and structural controls
♦ Vehicle entrances and exits
Important Points]
20
Maintenance & Inspection (Cont.)
• Operator inspection frequency
♦ At minimum once every 14 calendar days and within 24 hours after a
storm of 0.5 -inch or greater; or
♦ Once every 7 calendar days regardless of rainfall
• Operator inspection reports contents
♦ Name and qualifications of inspector(s), date of inspection
♦ Locations of sediment or pollutant discharges
♦ Locations of BMPs that need maintenance, have failed to operate as
designed or are inadequate, and/or where additional BMPs are needed
• SWPPP Modification
♦ SWPPP must be modified by the operator within 7 days of inspection if
deficiencies are identified
Important Points]
jm" c w�
21
Operator's Responsibilities
• Develop SWPPP and obtain TPDES permit coverage
for large and small construction activities
• Submit plans and obtain local permits
• Construct and install BMPs as specified by plans
• Maintain all BMPs throughout construction
• Make necessary changes to SWPPP
• Maintain inspection log that notes deficiencies and
corrective actions
• Remove all temporary BMPs after final stabilization
• Submit NOT (for large construction activities)
Important Points]
• Generic developers' /contractors' responsibilities include submitting
plans and obtaining all necessary permits. This process will vary
depending on the different cities' requirements.
• Fulfilling permit conditions throughout construction is the
deve lope rs'(owne rs')/ope rators' most important responsibility. It
includes:
♦ proper installation, inspection and maintenance of all BMPs
throughout: construction.
♦ record keeping which requires maintenance of SWPPP,
reflecting all site changes to the SWPPP and providing
necessary certification within the required time period, as well
as maintaining an inspection log that notes deficiencies and
corrective actions.
• Developers(owners) /contractors (not the inspectors) are primarily
responsible for inspecting BMPs to ensure that they work; inspectors
only confirm compliance.
22
MS4 Inspector's Responsibilities
• Enforce all applicable local (MS4) ordinances
• Advise TPDES permittees of identified deficiencies related to compliance
with the Construction General Permit
• Assess site conditions and understand the developer's SWPPP
• Possess technical competency to determine if BMPs are properly installed
and effective for the site conditions
• Determine if the SWPPP is being kept up to date as site conditions
change and deficiencies are identified
• Check that BMPs are properly maintained
• Take appropriate enforcement actions against violators including referral
to TCEQ in accordance with local (MS4) procedures if necessary
Important Points]
• Inspector needs to understand that an effective inspection program
requires:
♦ Appropriate technical competency.
♦ A focus on winning cooperation /bargaining enforcement.
♦ Playing a diagnostic and enforcement role.
♦ Fairness and a creative problem - solving attitude in helping site
personnel meet permit requirements.
♦ Clear communication channels between the enforcer and
developers /contractors.
♦ An understanding that the degree of installation and
maintenance compliance is directly proportional to the
frequency and duration of inspection.
• Inspectors only confirm compliance; it is the developers'
(owners') /operators' responsibility to inspect and maintain all BMPs.
23
1VIS4 Inspector Checklist
• During initial inspection, inspector needs to
understand site conditions:
♦ Erosion and sediment control plan
xk
♦ BMP installation
♦ Erodibility of soils
♦ Critical site area
♦ Potential source areas on site
♦ Presence and quality of existing vegetation
♦ Existing and proposed drainage patterns
♦ Climatic conditions during construction
♦ Construction sequencing
Important Points
• Generic Inspection Checklist and Schedule for typical E &S controls
♦ All required permits and plans should be in order.
♦ Erodibility of soils: What type of soils are on site? Physical and chemical
characteristics of soils?
♦ Are BMPs properly installed?
♦ Critical site area: Are there any critical site areas that may require special
considerations such as wetlands or creeks?
♦ Note potential source areas such as the location of construction staging,
material /chemical storage, and waste disposal areas.
♦ Note the presence and quality of existing vegetation: Is there any existing
vegetation that could be utilized for on -site erosion and sedimentation control
program?
♦ Existing drainage pattern: Can the existing drainage patterns be modified to
prevent run -on and' reduce runoff from exposed areas? If there is a spill, what is
the most effective way to contain the pollutants on site?
♦ Climatic conditions during construction: During wet seasons, more inspection
may be necessary and BMPs may require more maintenance.
♦ Construction sequencing: Does it make sense? Will it minimize site exposure?
24
M[S4 Inspector Checklist
• During follow -up inspections, observe
overall conditions:
♦ Signs of good housekeeping practices should be evident
♦ Signs of erosion and sedimentation should be noted
♦ BMPs should be properly installed
♦ BMPs :should be maintained based on schedule and all site
changes should be reflected in SWPPP
♦ Corrective measures required by previous inspections
should have been implemented
♦ Sediments collected from regular maintenance efforts will
need to be handled appropriately and not contribute to
additional sedimentation problems
♦ Operator inspection log complete
Important Point;]
• BMP implementation and maintenance: Are BMPs installed in a
timely manner to meet the permit requirements and as specified by
the SWPPP? Are the BMPs properly maintained?
OV N\WWOIN - (�i OV" !QW, W�
25
MS4 Inspector Checklist
• Miscellaneous
♦ Inspection immediately after a significant rain event will allow
inspector to identify ineffective erosion and sedimentation controls
♦ Intermediate inspection between rain events will allow inspector to
observe maintenance effort
♦ Work with operator's site representative and initiate enforcement
actions if necessary
♦ After construction is completed, inspector continues regular
inspections until site is permanently stabilized and temporary
measures and accumulated sediment are removed
Important Points]
26
Part 2:
Storm Water Best Management Practices for
Construction Activities
Controlling Pollution From
Construction
• Best Management Practices (BMPs)
♦ Effective and practical techniques or combination of
techniques used to reduce pollution.
• Pollution management using BMPs
♦ Preventive BMPs
♦ Treatment (remedial) BMPs
♦ Combination of preventive and treatment BMPs
Important Points]
• Best Management Practices are a group of techniques proven to be
effective in reducing and controlling storm water pollution.
• Three basic classes of BMPs:
♦ Preventive, measures,
♦ Treatment measures, and
♦ Combination of preventive and treatment measures.
• Examples of different BMPs:
♦ Preventative -- ground cover, diversion dike.
♦ Treatment -- silt fence, sediment pond.
27
Preventive vs. Treatment BMPs
• It is often more cost - effective to prevent
construction site erosion than to treat and
remove pollutants from runoff.
Low High
Limiting disturbed areas through phasing
Protecting disturbed areas through
12
0
mulching and reve etation
>_
Diversion around disturbed areas
w
~
Sediment removal through detention
Structural controls to treat flow
High Low
Important Points]
• Leaving cover on -site as long as possible (and restoring it as soon as
possible) reduces costs by:
♦ Reducing amount of runoff,
♦ Reducing erosion, and
♦ Lowering need for treatment BMPs.
• Limit disturbance on areas that do not contribute to the final
development:
♦ Protect areas that are beyond the limits of construction as
specified,
♦ Minimize construction staging area, and
♦ Utilize effective construction sequencing, e.g. construct parking
lots first and stage building construction from the parking lot.
• Do not disturb off -site areas without permit/agreement and, if used,
stabilize disturbed areas before leaving site.
28
Controlling Erosion
• Preventive Practices:
♦ Vegetatlive ground protection / ground stabilization
♦ Non - vegetative ground protection
♦ Diversion
• Treatment (Remedial) Practices:
♦ Trap and filter flow
♦ Trap and hold flow to allow settling
Important Points]
29
Preventive Practices
• Vegetative ground protection
♦ Vegetative ground protection (VGP) is the most effective
way of preventing erosion.
♦ VGP can be permanent or temporary.
♦ Provide vegetative ground protection by:
• Staging construction to retain existing vegetative cover and
minimize exposed ground.
• Using temporary and permanent VGP such as mulch and mats
with seeding.
Important Point:]
• Vegetative ground protection prevents erosion by:
♦ Shielding the soil surface from the direct erosion impact of
raindrops;
♦ Retaining water by improving the soil's water storage porosity
and capacity so more water can infiltrate into the ground;
♦ Reducing runoff energy by slowing the runoff and allowing the
sediment 'to drop out or deposit; and
♦ Physically holding the soil in place.
• Provide VGP by:
♦ Preserving existing ground covers by establishing limits of
construction and identified vegetative buffer and tree protection
areas.
♦ Staging construction to retain existing vegetative cover and
minimize exposed ground.
♦ Using temporary and permanent VGP such as temporary
seeding, permanent seeding, mulch and seed, mulch /mat
(mulch /mat provides protection while vegetation becomes
established), and sodding (sodding provides immediate
permanent stabilization).
30
Preventive Practices
• Non - vegetative ground protection:
♦ Non - vegetative measures are also used to protect ground
from erosive forces.
• Diversion:
♦ Diversions are placed to divert the erosive forces away from
areas that are disturbed and most prone to erosion.
Important Points]
• Examples of non - vegetative measures are rip rap at outlets and pipe
slope drain.
• Exposed ground can be stabilized by lime stabilization, which is quite
common in North Texas areas for soils with high plastic limits (clay).
However, runoff firom lime stabilized areas may adversely impact the
pH of runoff, which could be toxic to aquatic life. Precautions for lime
stabilized areas include:
♦ Place lime in stages to ensure that lime placed can be
thoroughly mixed.
♦ If phasing is impractical, curing seal will be necessary. Place
curing seal based on manufacturer's specifications.
♦ Diversions such as dike and interceptor swales are used to
control and reduce the potential to carry lime offsite.
• Diversion - dikes, drains, swales used to route flows around disturbed
areas.
31
Important Points]
32
Treatment/Remedial Practices
• Trap and filter flow:
♦ Filter barriers are used to filter sediment -laden flow.
• Trap and hold flow to allow settling of
sediment:
♦ Different methods are used to hold sediment -laden runoff for
settling.
Important Points]
• Perimeter controls include silt fences and straw bales; inlet protection
uses silt fences or a combination of wire mesh and gravel filter barrier.
• Trapping and holding flow allows settling of sediment.
• Different methods are used to hold sediment -laden runoff for settling:
s� Check dams, stone outlet sediment traps, temporary sediment
tanks and :sediment basins.
• Settling basins provide a higher rate of efficiency in removing
sediments when compared to other treatment practices.
33
Combination of
Preventive and Treatment BMPs
• Preventive measures are the most
effective method. However, construction
activities inevitably create conditions
where erosion and sedimentation occur.
4 most practical solution
Design a site - specific solution that uses a
combination of preventive and treatment
(remedial) BMPs.
Important Points]
• As part of a site - specific solution, consider integrating the following
construction sequencing techniques:
♦ Following a specified work sequence that coordinates the
timing of land- disturbing activities, logistics of equipment
access and installation of control measures is perhaps one of
the most important steps in implementing a successful program
in controlling erosion during construction.
♦ The removal of surface ground cover leaves a site vulnerable
to accelerated erosion. Construction procedures that limit land
clearing, provide the timely installation of erosion and
sedimentation controls, and restore protective cover quickly
can significantly reduce the erosion potential of a site.
♦ The construction sequence is an orderly listing of all major
land- disturbing activities together with the necessary erosion
and sedimentation control measures planned for a project. This
type of schedule guides the contractor on work to be done
before other work is started so that serious erosion and
sedimentation problems can be avoided.
34
Screening E &S Control BMPs
for Construction Sites
ENTRANCE AND EXITS MMUM11100-
AREAS EXPOSED MORE THAN 14 WMEN1111111-
DAYS DURING CONSTRUCTION
EXPOSED AREAS WITH RUN -ON I -_
FROM UPSTREAM OR RUNOFF
FROM SITE TO CRITICAL AREAS
FLOW WITH HIGH VELOCITY 1 1111110-
EXISTING AND NEW STORM INLETS
RECEIVING FLOW
RUNOFF WITH HIGH SEDIMENT I .a.-
STABILIZED CONSTRUCTION ENTRANCE
PERMANENT REMOVE TEMP.
CONSTRUCTION COMPLETION STABILIZATION MEASURES
Important Points]
• It is important to recognize that a BMP works for a specific set of
circumstances and not in all situations.
• Intermediate maintenance, including sediment removal, is required to
keep BMPs functional.
• Inspection of BMPs after rainfall of 0.5" rain or greater is the best way
to determine the effectiveness of implemented BMPs; schedule
maintenance and corrective measures as necessary.
• BMPs and accumulated sediment must be removed at the completion
of construction.
35
Silt Fence
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Geotextile should meet stated technical specifications.
♦ Geotextile should be secured and supported by posts.
♦ Geotextile should be embedded in trench to prevent any
bypass of runoff under the silt fence.
♦ Silt fence should be placed on contour to receive only sheet
flow as specified by the SWPPP.
♦ End of silt fence should be turned upslope such that runoff
does not flow around silt fence.
Important Points]
• Silt fence:
♦ A silt fence reduces the velocity of flow, allows deposition, and retains
sediment. It consists of a permeable barrier erected on small
disturbed areas to capture sediment from sheet flow. It is made of
filter fabric buried at the bottom, stretched, and supported by posts.
♦ Because silt fences are not designed to withstand high heads, the
drainage area must be restricted. Silt fences should be placed along
contour lines such that they do not receive concentrated flow and
water depth does not exceed 1.5 feet at any point.
• Straw /hay bale barrier
♦ Sometimes straw /hay bales are used instead of silt fences. These are
temporary barriers consisting of a row of entrenched and anchored
straw /hay bales erected on small disturbed areas to capture sediment
from sheet flow.
♦ Straw /hay bale barriers also reduce the velocity of flow, allow
deposition, and retain sediment. They are not designed to receive
concentrated flows.
♦ As a sediment barrier, straw /hay bales are less effective than silt
fences and they require more maintenance. They have a design life of
3 months or less. Do not install straw bale barriers across streams,
ditches, or where flows are concentrated.
36
Silt Fence
• Follow -up Inspection:
♦ Observe signs of sedimentation downstream of the silt
fence.
♦ Silt fence should remain secured and the geotextile should
remain embedded with no gaps.
♦ Geotextile that is clogged with sediment will need to be
cleaned or replaced with new fabrics if necessary.
♦ Silt buildup in excess of 6 inches high behind the fence will
need to be cleared.
Important Points]
37
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•
•
Silt Fence
Stabilized Construction Entrance
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Entrance must be placed at location specified by plan or as
needed according to site conditions.
♦ Crushed rocks or concrete must meet minimum 3- to 5 -inch
diameter requirements and not be placed directly on the
ground but on top of the filter fabric.
♦ Entrance must meet both minimum and site - specific length,
width and 6 -inch thickness requirements.
Important Points]
• Preferred location is at the high point of the site away from storm
water ponding area.
39
Stabilized Construction Entrance
• Follow-up Inspection:
♦ Look for signs of off -site sediments on paved areas:
• Tracked sediments need to be removed.
• Identify the reason. Is the construction entrance serving its
intended purpose at the specified location?
♦ New dressing of rock/concrete is necessary when:
• Gaps between rocks /concrete are filled with sediment, or
• Rock/concrete is crushed to less than 3 -inch diameter.
Important Points]
• When a stabilized construction entrance is working properly, sediment
is being deposited. The sediment trapped by the entrance needs to
be removed and properly disposed of frequently.
• It may be necessary to install a water tap for wash downs and wash
rack to further reduce sediment tracking in abutting streets.
40
DIVERSION RIDGE REQUIRED
WHERE GRADE EXCEEDS 27.
2 X OR GREATER
SEDIMENT BARRIER
(STRAW BALE TYPE SHOWN) \
SUPPLY WATER TO WASH
WHEELS IF NECESSARY,
FLOW
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SECTION A - A
NOTE: /
SPILLWAY USE STRAW BALES
OR jr�ERDBAAGS-ROVED ME THODS
TO HNELIZE RUNOFF TO BASIN
AS /REQUIRED.
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COURSE
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A AGGREGATE
MIN. r THICK
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_ • .'.
�,� DIVERSION RIDGE
50' MIN.
PLAN
Stabilized Construction Entrance
Temporary Vegetative
Ground Protection
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Temporary ground protection should be implemented in
locations as specified by the plan (SWPPP).
♦ Mulch should be used for areas that have just been seeded
or disturbed areas during non - growing season.
♦ Temporary stabilization is required for all disturbed areas,
including off -site material storage areas.
• Follow-up Inspection:
♦ Thin and bare spots need to be reapplied or revegetated.
Important Points]
For any disturbed areas that will remain for more than 21 days, temporary stabilization is
required. Use either mulch, temporary seeding or a combination of mulch /temporary
seedings.
Vegetation needs to be established by the 14th day if disturbed areas are to remain more
than 21 days.
Mulching:
• Mulch is the most effective, practical means of controlling erosion on disturbed areas
before establishing vegetation. Mulch protects the soil surface, reduces runoff velocity,
increases infiltration, slows soil moisture loss, helps prevent soil crusting and sealing,
moderates soil temperatures, and improves the microclimate for seed germination.
♦ Organic mulch such as straw, wood chips, and shredded bark are effective for general
use where vegetation is to be established. In recent years, a variety of mats and
fabrics have been developed that make effective mulches for use in critical areas such
as waterways and channels. Various types of tacking and netting materials are used to
anchor organic mulches. Netting is generally not effective when used alone.
Temporary seedings:
♦ Annual plants that are adapted to site conditions and that sprout and grow rapidly
should be used for temporary plantings. Proper seedbed preparation and the use of
quality seed are also important.
♦ Because temporary seedings provide protective cover for less than one year, areas
must be reseeded annually or planted with perennial vegetation.
♦ Temporary seeding is used to protect earthen sediment control practices and to
stabilize denuded areas that will not be brought to final grade for several weeks or
months. Temporary seeding can provide a nurse crop for permanent vegetation,
provide residue for soil protection and seedbed preparation, and help prevent dust
production during construction.
42
Diversion Dike
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Diversion dike should be placed as specified by the SWPPP
prior to any site disturbance.
♦ Diversion dike should be properly compacted using materials
clear of vegetation.
♦ Diversion dike should meet accepted side slope, width and
height criteria.
• Follow -up Inspection:
♦ Vegetation needs to be established by the 14th day if dike is to
remain more than 21 days.
♦ Any break in the dike will need to be repaired and re- stabilized.
♦ Silt buildup will need to be removed.
Important Points]
• Diversions are among the most effective and least costly practices for
controlling erosion and sedimentation. They can be permanent or
temporary and can serve special purposes such as perimeter
protection.
• Diversions may control runoff above steep slopes, across long slopes,
below steep grades, and around buildings or other areas subject to
damage from runoff. The capacity of the diversion should be based
on the runoff characteristics of the completed site and the potential
damage from runoff after development.
• It is important that diversions be designed, constructed, and
maintained properly since they concentrate flow and increase erosion
potential if failure occurs. Outlets for diversions must be stable for the
expected flow and reinforced before the diversion is installed.
43
DISCHARGE
ONTO A
STABILIZED
OUTLET
CROSS - SECTION
iRUNOFF FLOW
POSMVE DRAINAGE
PLAN V"
N.T.S.
3:1 SLOPE 24' MIN. DIKE TO BE PLACED
IN Ir LIFTS. COMPACTED
OR FLATTER TO 95X STD. PROCTOR
DENSITY
FLOW
.�-- --
lfr MIN.
7' -0' 1AIN.
STABILIZATION. IF REQUIRED SHALL BE
EXISTING GROUND -r THICK LAYER OF CRUSHED STONE OR
HIGH VELOCITY EROSION CONTROL MATTING
CROSS SECTION
N.T.S.
Diversion Dike
Interceptor Swale
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Swale should be placed as specified by the SWPPP.
♦ Swale should be properly stabilized.
♦ Swale should meet accepted depth, width, and side slope
criteria.
• Follow -up Inspection:
♦ Areas that show signs of erosion will need to be re-
stabilized.
♦ Damaged sections and ponding areas will need to be
repaired.
♦ Sediments and debris in the swales will need to be cleared.
Important Points]
• Swale
♦ Until swale has been stabilized, silt -laden runoff should be
discharged to a treatment barrier.
♦ Swale must maintain a positive grade.
♦ Swale should be discharged to an acceptable outlet -- either a
stabilized area for diverted run -on or sediment trap for
sediment -laden flow.
♦ Areas that show signs of erosion need to be restabilized. In
addition, the effectiveness of the cover materials should be
evaluated.
r•Al
CROSS SECTION
STONE STABILIZATION
MIN. T THICKNESS
OR EROSION CONTROL MAT
IS REQUIRED WHEN VELOCITIES
EXCEED 6 FPS OR SLOPE --
EXCEEDS 2.0%
PLAN Vm
N.T.S.
CHANNEL WIDTH
(PER PLANS)
3:1 SLOPE OR
FLATTER --�
1.5'
DESIGN WATER
SURFACE ELEVATION
CROSS SECTION
N.T.S.
Interceptor Swale
Energy Dissipator/
Stone RiDrau
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Riprap should be placed as specified by the SW PPP and
meet the criteria for width, length, and stone sizes.
♦ Riprap layer consisting of a mixture of stone sizes, as
specified, is more stable.
♦ Stones should not be placed directly on the soil surface but
on top of a filter fabric layer.
• Follow -up Inspection:
♦ Signs of erosion may indicate riprap is inadequate.
♦ Remove sediments that are built up.
Important Points]
47
MATERIAL ELEVATION
THICKNESS ('d') - 1.5 x MAX ROCK DIAMETER (I' MIN.)
_I
12' MIN. 'D'
um—
SECTION
La - 4.5 x 'D' MIN.
'D' = PIPE DIAMETER
PLAN
Energy Dissipator / Stone Riprap
4.0 x '0'
MIN.
Inlet Protection
• Inlet protection is used in paved or
unpaved areas:
♦ Silt fencing or hay bales in unpaved areas.
♦ Wire mesh and gravel filter barrier in paved areas.
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Inlet protection is placed as specified by the SWPPP.
♦ These may create ponding; therefore, traff ic and pedestrian
safety should be considered.
♦ Overflow /relief for flow exceeding the inlet protection
capacity should be provided.
Important Points
• There are many different types of drainage inlets such as curb and
grate inlets. Inlet protection for different types of inlets varies.
• Inlet protection is necessary for both existing and proposed inlets that
are receiving sediment -laden runoff. Filter barriers (geotextile and
gravel) shall meet accepted criteria.
• Inlet protection installed on sloping streets /areas does not allow
ponding; it merely blocks water from entering the storm sewer
system.
• To make sure that inlet protection does not cause excessive
ponding /flooding, it should provide overflow relief. An example of
overflow relief is the gap at the top of the curb inlet protection.
'Y' ON'
"� u`
v�+
49
Inlet Protection
• Follow -up Inspection:
♦ Barrier around the inlet structure must be continuous to
prevent flow from bypassing.
♦ Inlet protection using geotextile should receive same follow -
up inspection as silt fence.
♦ If inlet protection using gravel /stone barrier is clogged,
stone /gravel will need to be pulled to clear and remove
sediment.
♦ Damage from normal construction activities such as truck
traffic should be repaired as soon as possible.
Important Points
WX
BACK OF SIDEWALK r- A -- CATCH BASIN
BACK OF CURB
CURB INLET
2X4 WOOD STUD
CONCRETE BLOCK
WIRE SCREEN OR� �vwo` -1w1Uk- 71Q1°e:
FILTER FABRIC A \ CONCRETE BLOCK
314 t DRAIN GRAVEL PLAN VIEW
�� PONDING HEIGHT
/ OVERFLOW �� CONCRETE BLOCK
umm
`WIRE SCREEN OR CATCH BASIN
FILTER FABRIC
PLACED OVER VERTICAL \�-' 2X4 WOOD STUD
FACE TO PREVENT GRAVEL PLACED THROUGH
FROM GETTING THROUGH
THE HOLES OF SPACER
BLOCK ON BOTH END
TO KEEP BLOCKS IN PLACE
SECTION A - A
Curb Inlet Protection
it
PLAN VIEW
ATTACH FILTER SECURILY • FABRIC WOOD
FRAME. OVERLAPPING .- FRAME NECESSARY
FABRIC TO NEXT STAKE FOR STABUTY
PONDING HT.
2x4 WOOD FRAME
4 SIDES OF
DROP
INLET
0 x II�TRENCHDggINCK�LLED
WITH COMPACTED EARTH
SECTION A -A
Silt Fence Drop Inlet Sediment Barrier
Wnnn CTAWrr nn
ME
DRAIN
GRATE
LESS THAI
5% SLOPE
STRAW BALES
TIGHTLY STACKED OR
,ET CORNERS
:HOWN.
PLAN VIEW
PONDING HEIGHT STRAW
Ln— — — — ---a
i
DROP
INLET
V
U
SECTION
A -A
(STRAW BALES
STAKED WITH
2 STAKES
PER BALE)
GRAVEL
BACKFlLL
GRAVEL
BACKFILL
EMBED STRAW
BALE C MIN.
INTO SOIL.
Straw Bale /Gravel Dro p Inlet
Sediment Barrier
GRAVEL (12" MIN. DEPTH)
18` MIN RUNOFF WATER
WITH SEDIMENT
SEDIMENT
111111= Ii ►III =: _
1111= ililli=
FILTERED WATER
Drop Inlet Protection with
Wire Mesh and Gravel
Check Dams
• Check dams are barriers of rock or sand
bags placed across a drainage swale or
ditch.
♦ They reduce the velocity of small flows and allow sediment
to settle„
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Check dams should be placed as specified by the SWPPP
and used only in conjunction with other BMPs.
♦ They should be placed in series and anchored, and should
meet accepted height and spacing criteria.
♦ They are designed for small flows; major flows should be
allowed to pass to avoid major flooding upstream.
Important Points
• Check dams are used to reduce gullying /erosion in the bottom of
small channels. They are temporary expedient practices to reduce
channel erosion until permanent stabilization measures can be
installed. These small channel blocks serve to restrict the velocity of
flow by reducing the cross - sectional area of the channel at a series of
selected points.
• Check dams are usually made of stone. The center section must be
lower than the edges. Space the dams so that the toe of the
upstream dam is at the same elevation as the top of the downstream
dam. Ensure that overflow areas along the channel are resistant to
erosion from out -of -bank flow caused by the check dams. Restrict the
drainage area above the lowest dam to 5 acres or less.
55
Check Dams
• Follow -up Inspection:
♦ Replace and re- anchor check dam as necessary.
♦ Remove built up sediments to prevent flushing of sediments
by largo flow.
♦ Make sure that overflow areas from the overflow caused by
the check dams do not show signs of erosion.
Important Points]
56
POINT 'X' SHOULD BE�_
ABOVE POINT 'Y'
t-
2
• • lim. . . u
THE DISTANCE SUCH THAT POINTS 'A' AND
'B' ARE OF EQUAL ELEVATION.
Check Dams
Sediment Tank
• A sediment tank is a large truck - mounted
tank used to treat sediment -laden water to
provide for sedimentation and filtration.
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Use in sump locations where other BMPs are not practical.
♦ Tank should not have sediment beyond 1/3 tank capacity.
• Follow -up Inspection:
♦ Insure adequate treatment is provided prior to discharge.
♦ Tank sediments should be disposed of properly.
Important Points
• This practice works well with utility construction in confined areas, for
example, a trench that is filled with sediment -laden rain water or
groundwater, or excavation in a highly developed area (tank farm).
V &X&Y)
58
55 GAL DRUMS,
OR SIMILAR
WELDED END
lb END
3'0 INTAKE
FROM SUMP
PUMP
2'x4' CRADLE
ENDS OF BARRELS
CUT TO ACT AS A
BAFFLES (TYP.)
=1
ELEVATION
12' (APPRO)L) CLEANOUT SLOT
CUT OUT (INTERIOR WALL ONLY)
SECTION A -A
APPROX 3/4 4 BARREL
END TO ACT AS BAFFLE
Portable Sediment Tank
Stone Outlet Sediment Trap
• A stone outlet sediment trap is a small
ponding area formed in a depressed area
where a stone embankment or gabion is
placed to act as an outlet.
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Check to ensure that the trap is installed as specified by the
SWPPP (location, size, depth, and embankment).
Important Points
• This temporary device can be used in areas for 18 months or less.
04
Stone Outlet Sediment Trap
• Follow -up Inspection
♦ Inspect to make sure that trap is not clogged:
• Stones may need to be pulled to remove sediment between
them.
♦ Remove buildup or sediments when buildup is beyond 1/3
capacity of the trap.
♦ Sediment removed should be disposed of properly.
Important Points]
61
i
b
GEOTEME COVERED
FILTER STONE CORE
W RIP RAP
3
�+ 1
EXCAVATION. IF NECESSARY
FOR STORAGE. 1800 CF /AC..
MINIMUM
FLOW
CROSS- SECTION OF STONE OUTLET SEDIMENT TRAP
EXISTING GROUND
3
1�
Stone Outlet Sediment Trap
Sediment Basin
• Sediment basins can be the most effective
treatment practice in removing sediment
from runoff.
• Initial Inspection:
♦ Check to ensure that the basin is installed as specified by
the SW'PPP (location, size depth, embankment, spillway,
and outlet).
♦ The discharge point of the outlet pipe should be stabilized
with riprap and no additional erosion should be created.
♦ Basin embankments must be stabilized to prevent erosion.
Important Points]
• Basins are located to capture sediment from as much of the disturbed
area of the site as possible and should be installed before clearing
and grading begin. Ease of basin cleanout and spoil disposal should
be considered in site selection. The embankment should be well
compacted and vegetated.
• The rate of removal depends on the sediment type. Sands are
relatively easy but clay and silts take a lot longer to settle out. The
trap efficiency of the sediment pond will depend on how long and how
much runoff is detained. To increase the trap efficiency, the basin
should have the maximum surface area possible, and sediment
should enter the basin as far from the outlet as possible.
• Sediment basins should not be constructed in live streams or where
failure might cause loss of life or serious property damage.
63
Sediment Basin
• Follow -up Inspection:
♦ Inspect to make sure that outlet structure is not clogged and
remove debris.
♦ Remove buildup of sediments when buildup is greater than
1/5 capacity of the basin.
♦ Sediment removed must be disposed of properly.
♦ Outlet pipe should not create any erosion downstream of
sediment basin.
♦ Observe riprap at discharge for signs of sedimentation to
provide an indication of the effectiveness of the sediment
basin.
♦ Check for basin embankment stabilization.
Important Points
M
Good Housekeeping
• Housekeeping practices observed during
inspection will indicate overall E &S control
effort:
♦ Spoil piles, fill areas, and unprotected exposed ground need
erosion protection
♦ Construction sites require:
• waste collection and disposal
• ways to handle concrete washouts
• proper storage for chemicals and fuels
• containment for runoff from lime stabilized areas
Important Points
will
Appendix 1
Inspection Forms
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Appendix 2
Quizzes
Quiz 1
1. T / F
The best way to control sediment is to reduce erosion.
2. T / F
It is generally more cost - effective to prevent construction site erosion
than to treat and remove sediments from muddy water.
3. T / F
Sediment is the only potential impact from construction sites.
4. T / F
Silt fencing is very effective; therefore, it should be used on all
construction sites.
5. T / F
Vegetative stabilization is the most effective type of control.
6. T / F
Erosion can largely be prevented on construction sites by using the
appropriate preventive BMPs.
7. T / F
Erosion controls are mostly preventive BMPs and sedimentation
controls are mostly treatment BMPs.
8. T / F
The most practical solution to erosion and sedimentation is a
combination of preventive and treatment BMPs.
9. T / F
Storm water is the only force that contributes to erosion and
sedimentation.
10. T / F It is the developers'(owners') /operators' responsibility to inspect and
maintain BMPs. Inspectors only confirm compliance.
11. Name two reasons, other than water pollution, why sediment from construction
sites is a problem.
12. Four factors that determine the rate of erosion:
Quiz 2
1. T / F A temporary construction entrance is installed to trap sediment from
construction vehicles.
2. T / F To stop runoff from flowing around a silt fence, the ends of the silt
fence are turned down slope.
3. T / F Inadequate maintenance is often cited as one of the major factors
influencing the poor effectiveness of BMPs.
4. T / F Check dams are not effective for catching sediment but can slow flow
velocity and reduce channel erosion.
5. T / F When inlet protection is used in paved areas, it is important to consider
the effects of ponding runoff on traffic and safety issues.
6. T / F Straw /hay bales are as effective as a silt fence.
7. T / F Sediment basins can be the most effective sediment removal
structures.
8. T / F
The design life of a straw /hay bale is more than 3 months.
9. T / F
It is important to install a silt fence along a contour line.
10. T / F
Straw /hay bales can be used as check dams in channels.
11. T / F
The most effective way to provide ground cover is to use riprap.
12. T / F
Inspecting erosion and sediment controls immediately after a rainfall
event will provide good indications on the performance of erosion and
sedimentation controls on a construction site.
14. T / F
Riprap is used at outlet discharge points to reduce the velocity of flow
and to reduce erosion in channel areas.
15. T / F When installing a silt fence, it is important to embed the filter fabric in
trenches to prevent any bypass of runoff under the silt fence.
16. T / F After the site is permanently stabilized, it is very important to keep the
silt fence on site as a secondary measure to capture additional
sediments.
17. T / F Place crushed rocks directly on the ground when installing a temporary
construction entrance.
18. T / F During winter, straw or hay mulch will be the best form of temporary
ground protection.
Quiz 2
19. T / F Construction sequence does not have any impact on the installation of
erosion and sedimentation controls.
20. T / F Built up sediments cleared from sedimentation controls can be
disposed on -site when they are permanently stabilized and will not
contribute to sediment off -site.
21. Two examples of Spill Prevention and Response:
22. Two examples of Material Storage and Handling:
23. Two examples of Waste Management and Disposal:
Quiz 3
1. T / F All construction sites require grading permits and SWPPPs.
2. T / F When an NPDES permit is required, submit the NOI first and then
prepare a SWPPP.
3. T / F Erosion and sediment control is the only concern for SWPPPs.
4. T / F Inspectors' major responsibility is to issue stop work orders to violators.
5. T / F For construction sites that submitted an NOI, both the NOI and the
SWPPP will have to be made available on site for inspection.
6. T / F
Whenever there are any changes to site conditions and operations, it is
the inspector's responsibility to update the SWPPP within 7 days.
7. T / F
Sediment is the only potential pollutant from construction sites.
8. T / F
A construction site that is more than 5 acres in size is defined as an
industrial activity that will be regulated by a general NPDES permit.
9. T / F
Debris from a construction site should be buried on site.
10. T / F
Erosion and sedimentation controls will not be necessary when lime is
used to stabilize a construction site.
11. T / F During dry seasons, water can be used to limit wind erosion.
12. T / F The operator must perform inspections of BMPs at least once every two
weeks and within 24 hours after a storm of 0.5 -inch or greater.
13. List the four major responsibilities of inspectors:
14. List the four major responsibilities of developers(owner') /operators:
Appendix 3
Glossary
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
AST
Above - ground storage tank.
Backfill
Compacted soil material used to bring an area to grade so that
drainage will flow away from the site.
Baseline General Permit
A storm water permit (issued under the NPDES program)
intended to cover the majority of storm water discharges
associated with industrial activities.
Best Management Practices
(BMPs)
Schedule of activities, prohibitions or practices, maintenance
procedures, and other management practices
devices designed to prevent or educe t e ton
poll
of waters by preventing pollutants from entering storm waters or by directing
the flow of such waters. BMPs also include treatment
requirements, operating procedures, and practices to control
facility site runoff, spillage or leaks, sludge or waste disposal, or
drainage from raw material storage.
Binding agent / tacking agent
Any chemical or mechanical method used to
secure mulch to
keep it from blowing or washing away.
Biodegradable
Having the ability to break down or decompose under natural
conditions and processes.
Bypass
Intentional diversion of waste streams from an Y portion of a
treatment facility.
By- product
Material, other than the principal product, that is generated as a
consequence of an industrial process.
Calculated drainage area
The area of land that is vulnerable to storm water runoff and
sedimentation that will impact planned perimeter controls.
CERCLA
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act; often referred to as "Superfund."
Check dams
Small, temporary dams constructed across a drainage
swale or
ditch used to dissipate the velocity of the storm water drainage.
Clean Water Act (CWA)
Federal law regulating the discharge of water -bome pollutants
into surface waters. Also referred to as the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act or Federal Water Pollution Control Act
Amendments of 1972.
Code of Federal Regulations Compendium of official Federal Regulations. Notation indicates
(CFR) volume number, part and section of the code, as in 40 CFR
122.26.
Glossary — Page 1
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Combined storm water sewer A conveyance system which conveys storm waters and other
system waste waters together.
Concentrated storm water flow
Runoff flowing in a defined channel or drainageway.
vegetation worn down due to impacts from the elements or
Conduit
Any channel or pipe for transporting the flow of
Detention
water.
Contaminant/contamination
An unwanted and non - beneficial substance.
Conveyance
Any natural or manmade channel, ditch, culvert, pipe, conduit or
Diversion dike
similar device in which concentrated water flows.
Conveyance system
A system of interconnected open, closed, or pressurized flow
manmade or natural flow conveyance structures, pipes,
channels, drains, and similar devices to transport waste, storm,
Dust control
or similar waters.
Culvert
A covered channel or a large- diameter pipe that directs water
Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA)
flow below the ground level.
Curb
Manmade ground level structure of small height but usually of
considerable length used to confine or contain liquids on the
ground.
Denuded
Land stripped of vegetation such as grass, or land that has had
vegetation worn down due to impacts from the elements or
humans.
Detention
The temporary holding of runoff in a basin.
Discharge
A release or flow of storm water or other substance from a
conveyance or storage container.
Diversion dike
'Also known as an earth berm; a perimeter erosion and
sedimentation control, usually a temporary ridge of compacted
earth, which is stabilized with seed and mulch.
Dust control
The process of spraying water on denuded land areas to reduce
wind erosion.
Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA)
Primary federal agency responsible for enforcement of federal
laws protecting the environment.
Glossary - Page 2
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Erosion The wearing away of land surface by wind or water. Erosion
occurs naturally from weather or runoff but can be intensified by
land- clearing practices related to farming, residential or
industrial development, road building, or timber - cutting.
Exempt nonstorm water Nonstorm waters which can be legally discharged with storm
waters without an NPDES permit. Under federal storm water
discharge regulations, the following nonstorm waters are
exempt nonstorm waters:
- Discharges from fire fighting activities
- Fire hydrant flushings
- Potable waters, including waterline flushings
- Irrigation drainage
- Lawn watering
- Uncontaminated groundwater
- Foundation or footing drainage which is not contaminated
with process materials
- Discharges from springs
- Routine exterior building washdown waters which do not
have detergents in them
- Pavement wash waters from areas where spills or leaks of
toxic or hazardous materials have not occurred and in which
detergents are not used
- Air conditioning condensate
Filter fabric
A synthetic, woven or nonwoven fabric used for perimeter
sediment control and for soil separation such as construction
entrances.
Filter strip
Usually long, relatively narrow area of undisturbed or planted
vegetation used to retard or collect sediment for the protection
of watercourses, reservoirs, or adjacent properties.
Gabion stone
Six- to eight -inch well - graded rock, generally placed in wire
baskets for stream bank erosion control; also used for gravel
outlets for temporary sediment traps.
Gravel filter
Strategically sized and installed rock used to regulate the flow
of water discharging from a temporary sediment trap.
Grommets
Large metal or plastic staples used to secure flexible tubing to
a sloping area; primarily used for temporary slope drains.
Glossary - Page 3
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Hazardous substance
Any material that poses a threat to human health or the
environment. Hazardous substances can be toxic, corrosive,
ignitable, explosive, or chemically reactive; or any named
substance required by EPA to be reported if designated
a
quantity of the substance is spilled in the waters of the United
States or if otherwise emitted into the environment.
Incident
The release of an undesirable substance into the
Notice of Intent (NOI)
environment.
Inlet
An entrance into a ditch, storm sewer, or other waterway.
Material storage areas
Onsite locations where raw materials, products, final products,
by- products, or waste materials are stored.
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer
A separate storm water conveyance system operated by a
System (MS4)
municipality or other public agency.
National Pollutant Discharge
See the definition of "National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
Elimination System ( NPDES)
System" in 40 CFR 122.2 for further discussion. Federal
permitting system established by the CWA and administered
NPDES permit
by EPA to regulate point source discharges of wastewater,
process wastewater, non - contact wastewaters, storm water,
and similar discharges to waters of the United States.
Nonstorm water
Water or any other liquid which mixes with storm water,
enters a storm water conveyance system, is transported in a
storm water conveyance system, or is otherwise discharged
by a storm water conveyance system. Most nonstorm waters
cannot be legally discharged with storm waters without being
permitted (see definition of "exempt nonstorm water ").
Notice of Intent (NOI)
A formal, written declaration of intent to be covered by a
general permit and thereby abide by the terms and conditions
of such permits. NOls are submitted either to EPA or a state
permitting agency.
Notice of Termination (NOT)
A formal, written declaration that a facility is withdrawing its
coverage under a general permit after once being covered by
a general permit. NOls are submitted either to EPA or a state
permitting agency, justification of the withdrawal must be
provided.
NPDES permit
An authorization, license, or equivalent control document
issued by EPA or an approved state agency to implement the
requirements of the NPDES program.
Oil sheen
A thin, glistening layer of oil on water.
Glossary - Page 4
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
OiVwater separator
A device, usually installed at the entrance to a drain, which
removes oil and grease from water flows entering the drain.
Operator
Any parry associated with a construction project that meets
either of the following two criteria:
1) The party that has operational control over construction
plans and specifications, including the ability to make
modifications to those plans and specifications; or
2) The party that has day -to -day operational control of those
activities at a project that are necesssary to ensure
compliance with a storm water pollution prevention plan for
the site or other permit conditions.
Note: There can be more than one operator for the site.
Organic pollutants
Substances containing carbon which may cause pollution
problems in receiving streams.
Organic solvents
Liquid organic compounds capable of dissolving solids,
gases, or liquids.
Outfall
The point of exit of waters from a conveyance system; at
industrial facilities, the exit point for storm water conveyance
systems is usually the point where storm waters leave the
facility boundary.
Perimeter controls
E &S controls that are generally used within the boundary or
perimeter of a construction site; examples are silt fences,
diversion dikes, sediment traps, sediment basins.
Permit
An authorization, license, or equivalent control document
issued by EPA or an approved State /City agency to
implement the requirements of an environmental regulation;
e.g., a grading or a building permit.
Petroleum hydrocarbons
Petroleum organic compounds that contain only carbon and
hydrogen.
pH
Acidity or alkalinity of the discharge water.
Pipe outlet sediment trap
Same as the sediment trap with gravel outlet filter, but
designed for drainage areas between one and three acres.
Point source Any discernible, confined, and discrete conveyance, including
but not limited to any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, conduit,
well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock, concentrated
animal feeding operation, or vessel or other floating craft,
from which pollutants are or may be discharged.
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Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Pollutant
Legally, any dredged spoil, solid waste, incinerator residue,
filter backwash, sewage, garbage sewage sludge, munitions,
chemical wastes, biological materials, radioactive materials
(except those regulated under the Atomic Energy Act), or heat
discharged into water. From a practical perspective, a
pollutant is any substance or mixture which after
release into
the environment and upon exposure to any organism will or
may reasonably be anticipated to cause adverse effects in
such organisms or their offspring.
Pretreatment system
A treatment system designed to remove gross contamination
in order to increase the efficiency of the following treatment
steps.
Preventative
Maintenance Program
A schedule of inspections and testing at regular intervals
intended to prevent equipment failures and deterioration.
Recycle
To minimize the generation of waste by recovering usable
products that might otherwise become waste. Examples are
the recycling of aluminum cans, wastepaper, bottles.
and
Reportable quantity (RQ)
The quantity of a hazardous substance or oil that triggers
reporting requirements under CERCLA or the CWA. If a
substance is released in amounts exceeding its RQ, the
release must be reported to the National Response Center,
the State Emergency Response commission, and community
emergency coordinators for areas likely to be affected.
Residual
Amount of pollutant remaining in the environment after a
natural or technological process has taken place, e.g., the
sludge remaining after initial wastewater treatment.
Retention
The holding of runoff in a basin without release except by
means of evaporation, infiltration, or emergency by -pass.
Retrofit
The modification of storm water management systems in
developed areas through the construction of wet ponds,
infiltration
systems, wetland plantings, stream bank
stabilization, and other BMP techniques for improving water
quality. A retrofit can consist of the construction of a
new
BMP in the developed area, the enhancement of an older
storm water management structure, or a combination of
improvement and new construction.
Glossary - Page 6
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Riprap
A permanent, erosion - resistant ground cover of large, loose,
angular stone used to dissipate the energy of storm water
discharge from a pipe.
Root mat
A mixture of soil and plant roots that anchors the soil in place
for erosion and sediment control.
Runoff
Storm water surface flow or other surface flow which leaves
the property from which it originated.
Run -on
Storm water surface flow or other surface flow which enters
property other than that where it originated.
Sanitary sewer
A system of underground pipes that carries sanitary waste or
process wastewater to a treatment plant.
Sanitary waste
Domestic sewage.
Secondary containment
Structures, usually dikes or berms, surrounding tanks or other
storage containers and designed to catch spilled material
from the storage containers.
Sediment
Solid material, both mineral and organic, that is in suspension,
is being transported, or has moved from its site of origin by
air, water, or ice, and has come to rest on the ground's
surface.
Sediment basin
A holding area with a controlled storm water release structure;
designed for drainage areas greater than 3 acres.
Sediment trap
A device for removing sediment from water flows; usually
installed at outfall points.
Sediment trap with gravel outlet
A perimeter erosion and sedimentation control which provides
filter
a ponding area used to detain sediment -laden runoff long
enough to allow sediment to settle out. Designed for drainage
areas of one acre or less.
Sedimentation The process of depositing soil particles, clays, sands, or other
sediments that were picked up by flowing water.
Seed and mulch The method of mechanically or manually applying grass seed
mixtures and protective mulch covers to the soil surface to
ultimately establish an adequate stand of grass or ground
cover.
Separate storm water sewer A storm water conveyance system which conveys storm
system waters separately from other waste waters.
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Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
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Sheet flow
Runoff which flows over the ground surface as a thin, even
layer and is not concentrated in a channel or other
conveyance.
Significant material
Raw materials; fuels; materials such as solvents, detergents
and plastic pellets; finished materials such as metallic products;
raw materials used in food processing or production; hazardous
substances designated under section 101(14) CERCLA; any
chemical the facility is required to report pursuant to section
313, SARA of Title III; fertilizers; pesticides; and waste products
such as ashes, slag, and sludge that have a potential to be
released with storm water discharges. Note that significant
material refers to the type of material, not the amount.
Significant spills
Releases of oil or hazardous substances in excess of
reportable quantities under section 311 of the Clean Water
Act (see 40 CFR 110.10 and CFR 117.21) or section 102 of
CERCLA (see 40 CFR 302.4).
Silt fence
A synthetic filter fabric stretched across and attached to posts,
which intercepts and detains sediment on site; best suited for
gently sloping, nearly level land.
Silt trap
A small, temporary ponding area, formed by constructing an
earthen embankment with a gravel outlet across a drainage
swale.
Solid waste Any garbage, refuse or sludge, including solid, liquid,
semisolid or contained gaseous material resulting from
industrial, commercial, agricultural or mining operations, or
community activities, excluding material in domestic sewage,
discharges subject to regulation as point sources under the
CWA, or any nuclear material or by- product regulated under
the Atomic Energy Act of 1954.
Source control A practice or structural measure to prevent pollutants from
entering storm water runoff or other environmental media.
Spill guard A device used to prevent spills of liquid materials from storage
containers.
Spill Prevention Control and Plan consisting of structures, such as diking or curbing, and
Countermeasures Plan (SPCC) action plans to prevent and respond to spills of hazardous
substances as defined in the Clean Water Act. SWPPPs and
SPCC plans have many common features.
Glossary - Page 8
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Stabilization
The process of seeding and mulching denuded areas of land
to prevent soil from washing away.
Storm drain
Opening, usually slotted, leading to an underground pipe or
an open ditch for carrying surface runoff.
Storm drain inlet protector
A sediment filter or an excavated impounding area
around a
storm drain drop inlet or curb inlet used to prevent sediment
from entering storm drainage systems prior to stabilization of
a disturbed area.
Storm drain structure
A storm drain inlet device; i.e., curb inlet or grated drop inlet,
used to convey storm water through a piped system.
Storm water
Runoff resulting directly or indirectly from a storm
event or
snow melt runoff.
Storm water associated with
industrial activity
Discharge from any conveyance which is used for collecting and
carrying storm water and which is directly related to
manufacturing,
processing or raw materials storage areas at an
industrial plant. The term does not include discharges from
facilities or activities excluded from the NPDES program; and
does not include discharges from unregulated areas of industrial
facilities. The term includes, but is not limited to, storm water
discharges from industrial plant yards; immediate access roads
and rail lines used or traveled by carriers of raw materials,
manufactured products, waste material, or by- products used or
created by the facility; material handling sites; refuse sites; sites
used for the application or disposal of process waste waters (as
defined at 40 CFR 401); sites used for the storage and
maintenance of material handling equipment;
sites used for
residual treatment, storage, or disposal; shipping and receiving
areas; manufacturing buildings; storage areas (including tank
farms) for raw materials, and intermediate and finished
products; and areas where industrial activity has taken place in
the past and significant materials remain and are exposed to
storm water. For this definition, material handling activities
include the storage, loading and unloading, transportation, or
conveyance of any raw material, intermediate product, finished
Product, by- product or waste product. The term excludes areas
located on plant lands separate from the plant's industrial
activities, such as office buildings and accompanying parking
lots as long as the drainage from the excluded
areas is not
mixed with storm water drained from the above described areas.
The following categories are considered to be industrial
activities or operations:
(1) Hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal facilities,
including those that are operating under interim status or a
Glossary - Page 9
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Storm water associated with permit under Subtitle C of RCRA;
industrial activity (cont.) (2) Landfills, land application sites, and open dumps that have
received any industrial wastes including those that are subject to
regulation under Subtitle D of RCRA;
(3) Transportation facilities classified as Standard Industrial
Classifications 40 (Railroad Transportation) and 5171
(Warehousing) which have vehicle maintenance shops or
equipment cleaning operations. Only those portions of the
facility that are either involved in vehicle maintenance (including
vehicle rehabilitation, mechanical repairs, painting, fueling, and
lubrication), equipment cleaning operations, or which are
otherwise covered under other regulated industrial activity
categories are covered by this definition;
(4) Construction activity including clearing, grading and
excavation activities except: operations that result in the
disturbance of less than five acres of total land area which are
not part of a larger common plan of development or sale.
Storm water discharge
The discharge from any conveyance which is used for
collecting and conveying (transporting) storm water.
Storm water permit
An NPDES permit issued by EPA or delegated state to
discharge storm waters. Non - delegated states may have
other required state - issued (non- NPDES) permits for
discharge of storm waters.
Storm Water Pollution Prevention
A plan to reduce or minimize the introduction and subsequent
Plan (SWPPP)
discharge of pollutants in storm water discharges. Such plans
are required by storm water regulations.
Storm water regulations
Federal and corresponding (if any) state regulations which
regulate the point source discharge of storm waters.
Storm water release pipe
A pipe designed and installed to convey storm water runoff
from a given storm recurrence interval, e.g., 25 -year storm.
Storm water sewer system
A conveyance system which conveys storm waters.
Sump
A pit or tank that catches liquid runoff for drainage or disposal.
Surface impoundment
A pond for treatment, storage, or disposal of liquid wastes.
Surface water
Any body of water that is above ground, such as a river, lake,
reservoir, estuary, pond, creek or stream.
Glossary - Page 10
Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Swale
An elongated depression in the land surface that is at least
seasonally wet, is commonly vegetated, and is normally
without flowing water except during storm event periods.
Swales direct storm water flows into primary drainage
channels and allow some of the storm water to infiltrate into
the ground surface; vegetation may also promote biological
changes in flowing water containments.
Tarp
A sheet of waterproof canvas or other material used to cover
and protect materials, equipment, or vehicles.
Temporary construction entrance
A rock pad covering the width of the construction entrance,
used to remove mud from the tires of heavy equipment
vehicles. Often a wash rack is used at the entrance also.
Temporary slope drain
A flexible conduit extending from the top to the bottom of a
steep slope which is used to convey storm water runoff above
the slope to the bottom of the slope.
Total dissolved solids
The concentration of minerals in water.
Total suspended solids (TSS)
A measure of the suspended solids in wastewater, effluent,
storm water or similar waters; determined by using test for
total suspended non - filterable solids.
Toxic pollutants
Any pollutant listed as toxic under Section 501(a)(1) or, in the
case of "sludge use or disposal practices," any pollutant
identified in regulations implementing Section 405(d) of the
CWA; toxics are injurious to human health or animals.
Treatment
The act of applying a procedure or chemicals to a substance
to remove undesirable pollutants.
Tributary
A river or stream that flows into a larger river or stream.
Underground storage tank (UST)
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulated
tank and connected piping with 10 or more percent of its
volume underground; used to store petroleum products or
CERCLA- regulated hazardous chemicals.
Waste
Unwanted materials left over from a manufacturing, industrial
or other process or activity.
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Glossary Of Storm Water Management Terminology
(Continued)
Waste pile Any non - containerized accumulation of a solid, nonflowing
waste that is used for treatment or storage.
Wastewater Process water contaminated to such an extent that it cannot
be reused without some repurification.
WWTP Wastewater treatment plant.
Waterway A channel for the passage or flow of water.
Wetlands An area that is regularly saturated by surface or ground water
and subsequently is characterized by a prevalence of
vegetation that is adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.
Examples include: swamps, bogs, alluvial fans, marshes,
and estuaries.
Glossary - Page 12
Reference List
The following may be helpful reference material to area municipalities conducting storm
water quality programs for construction activities:
♦ Storm Water Quality Best Management Practices Manual for Construction Activities
for North Central Texas, North Central Texas Council of Governments, Department
of Environmental Resources, PO Box 5888, Arlington, Texas 76005 -5888, (817)
640 -3300
♦ SWP3 Expert System for Construction Activities, Software and User's Manual, City
of Dallas, Texas, Available from North Central Texas Council of Governments,
Department of Environmental Resources, PO Box 5888, Arlington, Texas 76005-
5888, (817) 640 -3300
♦ Keeping Soil on Construction Sites: Best Management Practices; Available from
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Soil and Water Conservation,
Fountain Square, E -2, Columbus, OH 43224
♦ Training Program for Site Inspections, Available from Fairfax Virginia Department of
Environmental Management, (703) 324 -1734
♦ Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook, Third Edition, 1992, Virginia
Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Soil and Water
Conservation, 203 Governor Street, Suite 206, Richmond, VA 23219 -2094, (804)
786 -2064
♦ New York Guidelines for Urban Erosion and Sediment Control, Third Printing, 1991,
Available from Empire State Chapter - SWCS, PO Box 712, Syracuse, NY 13261-
7172
Appendix 4
Reference List
The following may be helpful reference material to area municipalities conducting storm
water quality programs for construction activities:
♦ Storm Water Quality Best Management Practices Manual for Construction Activities
for North Central Texas, North Central Texas Council of Governments, Department
of Environmental Resources, PO Box 5888, Arlington, Texas 76005 -5888, (817)
640 -3300
♦ Keeping Soil on Construction Sites: Best Management Practices; Available from
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Soil and Water Conservation,
Fountain Square, E -2, Columbus, OH 43224
♦ Training Program for Site Inspections, Available from Fairfax Virginia Department of
Environmental Management, (703) 324 -1734
♦ Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook, Third Edition, 1992, Virginia
Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Soil and Water
Conservation, 203 Governor Street, Suite 206, Richmond, VA 23219 -2094, (804)
786 -2064
♦ New York Guidelines for Urban Erosion and Sediment Control, Third Printing, 1991,
Available from Empire State Chapter - SWCS, PO Box 712, Syracuse, NY 13261-
7172