Estimating Parameters for an Effective Sediment Basin or Trap

Jerald S. Fifield, Ph.D., CISEC

The most effective method for removing sediment from runoff waters is by a well-designed sediment basin or trap. Unfortunately, a misconception exists that a containment volume of 125 to 250 cubic metres/hectare (1,800 to 3,600 cubic feet/acre) is the most important parameter to consider for an effective system. While runoff volume is important, discharge rates from any sediment containment system (SCS) are much more critical.
Contributing soils, runoff volume, structural shape, discharge rates, particle diameter, internal flow length, fall distance, pond surface and pond volume must be incorporated into the design of an effective SCS. This paper will develop and evaluate “estimated” parameters for an effective sediment basin/trap design using science, mathematics and engineering principles.

Learning Objectives

  • Participants will find out that while sediment basins or traps do not capture all suspended particles found in runoff waters, no other sediment control BMP is more effective.
  • Designers and reviewers will learn how they can be more accountable to contractors for their design and approval of sediment basins or traps for implementation on construction sites.
  • Regulatory agencies will learn about suggested updates to their criteria that is necessary to ensure development of effective construction site sediment containment systems.

Presented by Jerry Fifield, Ph.D., CISEC

Since 1982 when Dr. Jerald Fifield started HydroDynamics Incorporated, he has been actively involved with drainage, sediment and erosion control, water rights and nonpoint pollution control. Through his company, he develops sediment and erosion control plans, completes drainage analyses, provides inspection services and provides training to designers, reviewers, inspector and contractors about sediment and erosion control on construction sites.

In 2006, Dr. Fifield founded CISEC, Inc., which is a worldwide training and certification program for inspectors of sediment and erosion control. He has authored numerous professional papers for IECA, ASCE, StormCon and many other professional organizations. In addition, Jerry has researched sediment and erosion control products and written sediment and erosion control manuals for designers and reviewers and field manuals for inspectors and contractors.