SEDIMENT BASIN

Definition

A temporary barrier or dam constructed across a drainage way or at other suitable locations to intercept sediment laden runoff. This barrier may be combined with excavation to achieve the required storage.

 Purpose

Sediment basins protect downstream properties and drainageways by trapping sediment and controlling the release of stormwater runoff.                                     

Wet and Dry Storage

The minimum storage volume requirement for sediment basins is 3600 cubic feet per acre of contributory drainage area. The basin storage volume of 3600 cubic feet per acre shall be divided equally into “dry” or dewatered storage and “wet” or retention storage. Basins shall be dewatered to the wet pool elevation corresponding to 1800 cubic feet of storage per acre of drainage area.

Conditions Where Practice Applies

A sediment basin is required to control runoff and sediment from large areas where sediment traps are not appropriate. Stormwater management ponds may be used as sediment basins provided that they meet the requirements of this section and that the construction sequence addresses converting the sediment basin to the permanent stormwater management pond.

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