In stormwater management, what is the purpose of using silt fences?

The primary purpose of using silt fences in stormwater management is to prevent sediment from leaving a construction site. Silt fences are a temporary sediment control measure that helps to filter out sediment from stormwater runoff, allowing water to pass through while trapping soil particles. They are typically made of geotextile fabric and are installed along the perimeter of a construction site or in areas where soil erosion might occur.

By capturing sediment, silt fences help to maintain water quality in nearby water bodies and prevent the detrimental effects of excessive sedimentation, such as clogging of waterways, harm to aquatic habitats, and degradation of water quality. This is crucial for both regulatory compliance and ecological reasons. Proper installation and maintenance of silt fences ensure their effectiveness in controlling sediment transport during rain events, making them an essential tool in construction site management.

The other options do not accurately reflect the function of silt fences: they do not support plant growth, filter pollutants from groundwater, or promote wildlife movement. Each of those functions pertains to different methods or practices within stormwater and environmental management.