What is a common practice for minimizing sediment during construction?

Using fabric silt fences is a common practice for minimizing sediment during construction because they serve as a barrier to intercept and capture sediments from disturbed areas. Silt fences are typically made of geotextile fabric supported by posts, and they are strategically placed around the perimeter of a construction site or along drainage pathways. When rainwater flows towards the fence, the fabric slows down the water flow, allowing sediments to settle out before they can escape into adjacent areas or waterways. This method effectively helps to reduce the amount of sediment leaving the construction site, thereby protecting the surrounding environment and complying with regulations regarding stormwater management.

Watering down dirt areas, while it can help reduce dust, does not effectively control sediment runoff. Planting grass immediately may not establish enough ground cover quickly enough to prevent erosion during construction. Excavating deeper trenches can disturb more soil and potentially increase sedimentation instead of controlling it. Therefore, the use of silt fences stands out as a targeted approach to manage sediment effectively during construction activities.