Site Inspections & Evaluation

Being able to inspect erosion control Best Management Practices (BMPs) and property for compliance is essential to ensure environmental protection and regulatory adherence.

These inspections allow for the evaluation of erosion control measures, such as silt fences, sediment basins, and vegetation cover, ensuring they are installed and maintained according to local, state, and federal standards.

Regular inspections help identify issues like material degradation, improper installation, or areas that may require additional measures. Compliance checks also ensure that the property meets legal requirements, safeguarding the surrounding ecosystem and preventing pollutants from entering water systems. Effective oversight of erosion control practices not only minimizes environmental impact but also prevents costly fines and project delays.

Design & Planning

After performing a site visit inspection, the next crucial step is the design and planning of corrective or preventative measures to address any identified issues.

This involves analyzing the site conditions, including soil type, topography, and water flow patterns, to determine the most effective erosion control strategies. Based on the findings, a detailed plan is developed, specifying the type and placement of BMPs (Best Management Practices) such as sediment barriers, silt fences, or detention basins.

The plan also includes timelines for implementation, maintenance schedules, and any additional landscaping or vegetation requirements. Proper design ensures that the erosion control measures are not only compliant with regulations but also tailored to the specific needs of the site, effectively reducing runoff, stabilizing soil, and minimizing environmental impact.

Cost Estimating & Budgeting

The cost estimating process and budgeting for a project involve a detailed analysis of all potential expenses associated with the design, materials, labor, and implementation of erosion control measures.

This begins with gathering data from the site inspection, including the scope of work, site-specific conditions, and the types of BMPs required. From there, a cost estimate is developed by evaluating material costs, labor rates, equipment needs, and any permits or regulatory fees that may apply. The estimate also accounts for potential unforeseen expenses, such as delays due to weather or site complications.

Once the cost estimate is complete, a budget is created to outline the financial framework for the project, ensuring that the necessary funds are allocated for each phase.

BMP Repair and Installation (Temporary or Permanent)

Following plans and regulations for both permanent and temporary sediment basins is critical to ensuring effective erosion control and compliance with Virginia DEQ environmental standards.

Sediment basins, whether temporary or permanent, are designed to capture and settle out sediment from stormwater runoff, preventing pollutants from entering local waterways.

Temporary sediment basins are typically used during construction or other land-disturbing activities and must be installed according to approved erosion control plans, meeting specific size, depth, and outlet design requirements to handle runoff volumes and sediment load.

Permanent sediment basins, on the other hand, are intended for long-term sediment management and must be designed for sustained operation, with careful attention to local regulations regarding structural integrity, maintenance, and safety features.

Erosion Control Device Installation

Erosion control devices are essential tools used to prevent soil erosion, stabilize land, and protect water quality during construction or land-disturbing activities. These devices come in various forms, each designed for specific site conditions and project needs.

Common types include silt fences, sediment basins, erosion
control blankets, and straw wattles. Silt fences are often used along the perimeter of construction sites to capture sediment-laden runoff, while sediment basins are designed to hold runoff and allow sediment to settle before water is discharged. Erosion control blankets and matting help to stabilize exposed soil, especially on slopes, by providing temporary protection and promoting vegetation growth. Straw wattles, typically placed along contours or in ditches, help slow down water flow and filter out sediment.

Additionally, there are more advanced devices, such as turbidity barriers and rock check dams, that help manage runoff in high-risk erosion areas.

Slope Repair

Slope repairs are essential for stabilizing land areas that are at risk of erosion or failure, often due to factors like water runoff, construction activity, or natural degradation. When slopes become unstable, they can lead to landslides, soil erosion, or damage to infrastructure, posing environmental and safety risks.

The repair process typically involves several techniques depending on the severity and cause of the instability. Common methods include regrading the slope to a gentler angle, installing retaining walls or berms for support, and applying erosion control materials like geotextiles, erosion blankets, or mulch to reduce surface runoff.

Additionally, planting vegetation, such as grass or deep-rooted plants, can help stabilize the soil by reinforcing the slope with natural roots that bind the soil together.