Sheet Flow Construction Erosion Control

January 28, 2011

WSDOT Erosion Control Program 1996-1999

WSDOT Erosion Control Program 1996-1999
David S. Jenkins
Statewide Erosion Control Coordinator

WSDOT hired a full-time Statewide Erosion Control Coordinator to develop policy and oversee implementation of the WSDOT Erosion and Sediment Control Program. In addition, the Statewide Erosion Control Coordinator provides on-site technical assistance to Project Inspectors and makes field visits to highway construction sites to evaluate planning and implementation of TESC plans. This provides WSDOT with the opportunity to share successful experiences and develop consistency in program implementation.

<a “=”” href=”http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Environment/WaterQuality/Runoff/HighwayRunoffManual.htm”>Highway Runoff Manual

The primary guidance document for the program is the WSDOT Highway Runoff Manual (HRM) which was adopted in January, 1995. The HRM was developed to direct stormwater management activities for new and existing state highways, rest areas, park and ride lots, and ferry terminals and is consistent with the Washington State Department of Ecology (WDOE) “Stormwater Management Manual for the Puget Sound”. The HRM requires that projects adding more than 5,000 sq. feet of new impervious surface provide both water quality and water quantity treatment for those surfaces. Also, a Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (TESC) is prepared for all WSDOT construction projects that involve excavation, clearing, grubbing, trenching, or any activity that exposes bare soil to precipitation and/or wind.

As part of the effort to improve environmental compliance with the various regulations, revisions and additions to the “Standard Specifications for Road, Bridge, and Municipal Construction” are being developed and implemented with assistance from the Associated General Contractors (AGC)/WSDOT Roadway Quality Team. The first new specification to be implemented was the Erosion and Spill Control Lead General Special Provision which became effective 10/28/96.

Erosion & Spill Control Lead General Special Provision

Starting in early 1997, the Contractor was required to designate and make known to the Project Engineer during pre-construction meetings the firm’s Erosion & Spill Control Leads (ESC Leads). These people will have the training to administer an active and effective construction site erosion and spill control programs. Certification as the Erosion Control Lead is achieved by attending a WSDOT-approved course in Construction Site Erosion and Spill Control. Re-certification is required every 3 years.

Spill Prevention, Containment, & Control Specification

In order protect surface and ground waters, and soil resources from contamination by hazardous materials, a specification has been developed that will give guidance to WSDOT personnel and contractors. Currently this plan is called the “Contractor’s Addendum to the TESC plan. Training will be provided for SPCC plan preparations.

Construction Site Erosion & Spill Control Training

Education is the foundation of the WSDOT temporary erosion and spill control programs. Training programs are developed for WSDOT Design, Construction, and Engineering staff as well as for the contracting community. These programs are specific to highway construction under all state-wide conditions and give attendees some of the tools necessary to implement an effective program. The goal is to prevent discharge of contaminated storm water from construction sites. As of late 1998, over 1000 persons have been certified.

Courses are offered every year during the construction off-season, which runs from approximately October through March. The courses are held over a two day period and cover: the difference between erosion control and sediment control; erosion prevention; and proper BMP installation, maintenance, and inspection. One half day of field work with hands-on training in BMP installation provides the opportunity to become familiar with different erosion and sediment control techniques. Also, information concerning the latest erosion and sediment control technology is given.

TESC Monitoring, Research & New Product Evaluation

WSDOT will continue to participate in research efforts to identify cost effective temporary erosion control methods and to evaluate new erosion prevention and sediment control products. Some examples include:

An internal New Products Review Committee, in cooperation with WSDOT’s Materials Lab and the Hydraulics Office, evaluates new commercial erosion control products submitted by contractors. Priority items to be reviewed include filter fence designs and erosion control matting.

WSDOT documents case histories of TESC product effectiveness in actual field construction situations. HRM recommendations and design specifications and be developed based on on-site experience.

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