Construction activities increase the ability of soil to erode once vegetation and the topsoil eventually becomes removed. Once this takes place, there will be a high degree of concern for various erosion processes to begin to take place. A diversion is the best management practice a construction site can implement to minimize the risk.
Stormwater diversions can be useful to manage water flows and prevent soil erosion on a construction site. On sloping areas, a diversion can be placed to trap and divert sheet flow before it has a chance to cause rill and gully erosion.
One way is to establish a temporary diversion berm. A diversion berm is intended to divert overland erosion to a stabilized location or a sediment-trapping area during active disturbed areas.
Another excellent method to minimize rill erosion is to install silt fence to capture sediment under sheet flow conditions. Silt fence should not be installed for channel erosion or flow conditions like ditches, swales, or in live streams or waterways.
Slowing down sheet flow and preventing rill erosion are essential measures in soil conservation and water management. When implementing specific erosion control measures, it is crucial to consider the specific characteristics of the landscape and the local climate. Constructing diversion channels can redirect water away from vulnerable areas, reducing the risk of erosion. The channels should be designed to slow down water flow and promote infiltration.
KCI has expert stormwater inspectors who can evaluate your current needs for diversion methods and can provide helpful tips that can specifically fit the needs of your site. Contact KCI today, 888-346-7779.
