Silt Fence Erosion Control

State Code DNR NR 216/151 and City Code 10-12-1 require erosion control on a construction site. Silt fence is the most common method of erosion control in the area. A silt fence is made of a filter fabric that has been entrenched, attached to supporting poles, and sometimes backed by a plastic or wire mesh for support. The silt fence detains sediment laden water, promoting sedimentation behind the fence. When placed correctly, a silt fence will prevent erosion, keeping sand and dirt in place while allowing excess water to drain from the site. The type of silt fence should be based on the size of the project and not the cost.
The contractor on the current City project on CP/Owen/Prairie has opted to use silt fence for erosion control. Silt fences will create temporary sedimentation ponds on the upstream side of the fence and cause temporary flooding. Silt fences are preferable to many other options because it has the ability to pass more water, trap more sediment and remain in place longer.
A soundly-built silt fence contributes just as much as blueprints and building materials to the success of a project. When installed correctly, this necessary part of the work site does its job, keeping rains from having a runoff effect on the site.