Erosion Control
Why Care About Erosion?
- Sediment clogs culverts and storm drains. This can result in decreased flow capacity, which can cause flooding or storm system failure. The end result is increased maintenance costs.
- Storm water control and treatment ponds can become filled with sediment at a quicker rate than what they were designed for, which also results in system failure and increased maintenance costs.
- Sedimentation of streams causes water turbidity. Turbidity impairs foodchain organisms in the stream (macro-invertebrates), clogs gill passages of fish, and reduces photosynthesis.
- Sediment can carry other pollutants to streams and Lake Whatcom.
Need Information on Ways to Control Erosion?
There are a variety of best management practices (BMPs) that can be installed at construction sites that will help reduce erosion. Whatcom County, the City of Bellingham, and Washington State Department of Ecology have information on standards for erosion control and descriptions of the different types of BMPs available. Silt fences, straw bales, mulching, and brush barriers are examples of commonly used BMPs. The successful control of sediment from your site may require a combination of different BMPs.
Questions About Regulatory Requirements?
The City of Bellingham, Whatcom County, and Washington Department of Ecology all have standards and regulatory requirements associated with various phases of construction. In addition, the City and County have special requirements that apply in sensitive areas, which includes the Lake Whatcom Watershed.
If you are building in the County portion of the Lake Whatcom Watershed and need assistance in identifying best management practices appropriate for your construction site or need information on Whatcom County standards and requirements, contact: Whatcom County Planning and Development, 676-6907.
