What function does a sediment basin serve?

A sediment basin primarily functions to filter and detain turbid runoff from sites undergoing construction or land disturbance. By capturing sediment-laden water, the basin allows suspended particles to settle out, thus reducing the amount of sediment that can enter natural water bodies downstream. This process is crucial for maintaining water quality and preventing erosion in downstream areas.

In contrast, the other choices describe functions that are not aligned with the primary purpose of a sediment basin. For example, increasing the speed of water flow does not occur within a sediment basin; rather, it aims to slow down the runoff to facilitate sedimentation. Storing excess nutrients is also not the main objective of a sediment basin, as its primary role is sediment removal rather than nutrient management. Additionally, while providing habitat for aquatic species can be a beneficial outcome of various water management practices, it is not a fundamental function of a sediment basin, which is primarily focused on sediment control.