Phase II BMP & Measurable Goal Examples
CONSTRUCTION SITE RUNOFF CONTROL MINIMUM MEASURE
Construction sites can be a significant source of sediment for MS4s, especially when installation and maintenance of erosion and sediment controls are not required or adequately enforced.
Hypothetical Case Study: Smalltown, USA, is experiencing significant new development, and the City plans to establish a regulatory and enforcement mechanism for both erosion and sediment controls at construction sites.
Minimum Measure Objective: Establish a set of minimum erosion and sediment control (ESC) requirements for construction sites that disturb more than 5,000 square feet, including planning, installation, inspection, and maintenance of ESC practices.
BMP: Require ESC plans for any land disturbance greater than 5,000 square feet
Measurable Goal: A draft ordinance and guidance will be prepared within one year. A final ordinance and ESC guidance will be available within two years.
Justification: Small construction sites have been shown to contribute as much sediment as large sites on a per acre basis. Therefore, planning for erosion and sediment control practices and procedures in advance of starting construction is an important step in preventing sediment from entering the MS4.
BMP: Require the use of appropriate perimeter controls on construction sites
Measurable Goal: ESC requirements will be revised to require all construction sites on slopes in excess of 5 percent and in areas where calculations indicate pooling of water behind the structure to use steel-reinforced silt fencing. Additional requirements include proper installation and maintenance of these and other perimeter controls.
Justification: Traditional perimeter controls, such as standard silt fence, have higher failure rates when water pools behind the control. Requiring steel-reinforced silt fence, which is standard silt fence fortified with chain-link fencing and steel stakes, in critical areas will reduce damage to perimeter controls during storm events.
BMP: Develop a certification program for contractors
Measurable Goal: Achieve 80% compliance with ESC requirements by the end of the first permit term.
Justification: Educating contractors about the proper selection, installation, inspection, and maintenance of BMPs will help to ensure compliance with ESC requirements.
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