What does stabilization mean? Directly from the Merriam-Webster dictionary it states “to make something stable, steadfast, or to hold steady”. During active construction projects, it is critically important to limit stormwater exposure and stabilize the soil by using vegetative or non-vegetative Best Management Practices (BMPs). Effectively implementing and maintaining such practices will dramatically reduce erosion and sedimentation in an active and exposed construction area.
As land disturbing activities occur on an active construction site, soils that are now exposed in an unvegetated state can be subjected to untamed stormwater. Proactively stabilizing these areas as soon as possible will help soils stay in place preventing erosion as well as sediment from moving. It is vital to establish an effective maintenance program along with installing adequate BMPs throughout the construction timeline. It is important to understand that these critical measures put into place are expected to be maintained and inspected on a regular basis.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Construction Generic Permit (CGP) states the following.
Section 8.31: Temporary Stabilization
A condition where exposed soils or disturbed areas are provided a temporary vegetative and/or non-vegetative protective cover to prevent erosion and sediment loss. Temporary stabilization may include temporary seeding, geotextiles, mulches, and other techniques to reduce or eliminate erosion until either final stabilization can be achieved or until further construction activities take place to re-disturb this area.
Section 8.11: Final Stabilization
All soil disturbing activities at the site have been completed, and that a uniform (e.g., evenly distributed, without large bare areas) perennial vegetative cover with a density of at least 70% for all unpaved areas and areas not covered by permanent structures has been established or equivalent permanent stabilization measures (e.g., geotextiles) have been employed.
A construction site must actively initiate stabilization measures within 7 calendar days after construction activities have temporarily or permanently ceased for any portion of the site. KCI can help you determine whether your site is secured, ready, and stabilized. Call us today at 888-346-7779.
