The Hendricks County SWCD assists developers and builders with erosion control on construction sites. When proper erosion control steps are not taken prior to land-moving, off-site erosion occurs. Sediment is the #1 pollutant in Indiana waterways.

Different from point source pollution as a smokestack or a sewer pipe. Sediment is usually deposited over a wide area, known as a non-point source pollutant. Although federal and state regulatory agencies have regulated point sources of pollution since the 1970's, non-point source pollution rules have recently been in effect and are being enforced.

Non-point source pollution can be addressed by the use of Best Management Practices, which include securing silt fences or temporary diversions around the perimeter of the land-disturbing activity, leaving a few feet of vegetation along the outside edge of the site for a "filter strip" or just seeding the area immediately.

Tips for controlling erosion before and after earth moving:

• Perimeter protection to prevent off-site sedimentation. This can be done by using either:
  • silt fences
  • temporary diversions
  • by leaving a 10 to 15ft. wide grass strip around the entire site
• Stone construction entrance temporarily to control mud on public road
• Stockpile topsoil to use as needed to provide quality soil for seeding

Other practices used during construction:

• Temporary Sediment basins
• Detention/Retention basins
• Rock dams
• Curb inlet protection
• Erosion control blankets
• Straw mulch w/tackifier
• Seeding
  • Temporary
  • Permanent
  • Dormant
• Rip Rap steep slopes
• Tree conservation

"Rule 5" assistance/information

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