EARTH DIKE

Definition

A temporary berm or ridge of soil, compacted, stabilized, and located in such a manner as to direct water to a desired location.

Purpose

The purpose of the earth dike is to direct runoff to a sediment trapping device which reduces the potential for erosion and sedimentation. Earth dikes can also be used for diverting clean water away from disturbed areas.

Conditions Where Practice Applies

Earth dikes are often constructed across disturbed areas and around construction sites such as parking lots and subdivisions. The dikes shall remain in place until the disturbed areas are permanently stabilized.

Earth dikes are constructed:

1. To divert sediment laden runoff from a disturbed area to a sediment trapping device.

2. Across disturbed areas to shorten overland flow distances.

3. To direct sediment laden water along the base of slopes to a trapping device.

4. To divert clean water from an undisturbed area to a stabilized outlet. Runoff shall be discharged at non-erosive rates.

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