Mulches

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Using Mulches at Construction Sites

Mulching provides immediate temporary soil stabilization, protects soil surface from raindrop impact, prevents soil compaction and decreases runoff. Mulching also fosters establishment of temporary and permanent vegetative cover.

Mulch Material 
Application Rates
Things to Consider
Straw
2” – 3” thick
5 bales/1000 sf or
2-3 tons/acres
  • Crimp straw to avoid wind blow. Crimping involves punching the straw into the soil with a dull shovel.
  • Thickness may be reduced when used with seeding.
Hydromulch 
25-30 lbs/ 100 0 sf or
1500-2000 lbs/acre
  • Apply with hydromulcher.
  • Do not use without seed and tackifier unless the application rate is at least doubled.
Chipped Site Vegetation 2” minimum thickness
  • In general, not for use on slopes greater than 10%
  • Not recommended within 200 feet of surface waters.
Wood-based (“Hog Fuel”)
2” thickness
100 tons/acre
  • Inclusion of weed plants or seeds should be monitored and prevented or minimized

Limitations:

  • Should be used in conjunction with other best management practices.
  • Intended as a temporary measure for soil stabilization and/or while temporary or permanent vegetative cover is established.

Maintenance Requirements:

  • Inspect mulched areas within 24 hours after each rainfall or periods of heavy winds or daily during periods of prolonged rainfall.
  • Additional mulching material should be applied immediately when thickness of the cover has been reduced and/or erosion occurs.
  • Continue inspections until vegetative cover has been established.

Storm Water Management Manual for Western Washington, BMP Reference (2005):

Available at:  http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/stormwater/index.html

  • Mulching – BMP C121, Volume II, Construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention
  • Nets and Blankets – BMP C122, Volume II, Construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention
  • Sodding – BMP C124, Volume II, Construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention
  • Temporary & Permanent Seeding – BMP C122, Volume II, Construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention
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