ENVIRONMENTAL CONNECTION / THIRD QUARTER 2025 / IECA.ORG 11 efficiency. Best practices include incorporating multiple porous baffles to dissipate energy and enhance sedimentation (Cover photo). • Innovative Dewatering Techniques – The inclusion of surface skimmers ensures sediment remains undisturbed while water is discharged. This improves the efficiency of sediment basins. • Maintenance Guidance – Regular inspection and sediment removal protocols prolong basin lifespans. A design guide is included with the standard to demonstrate how to size the temporary sediment basin based on runoff quantity from the design storm. This detailed guide gives practitioners the tools they need to design temporary sediment basins. 3. Construction Exit Pad Standard Construction exit pads are designed to minimize soil track-out and debris from construction vehicles (Figure 1). Recent updates to the standard emphasize material specifications and improved design to accommodate varying site conditions. For example: • Length and Width – The Committee highlighted the need for customization based on site-specific vehicle traffic and soil conditions. Exit pads should be designed to accommodate narrow and wide access points, which ensures flexibility for different projects. • Geotextile Underlays – To improve durability, the standards recommend integration of nonwoven geotextile underlays beneath aggregate pads. • Traffic Control Features – Updated guidance includes measures such as flaring exit pad ends and the incorporation of a turning radius for safe vehicle movement while minimizing soil disturbance. These enhancements aim to extend the lifespan of construction exit pads and improve their efficiency, particularly in high-traffic construction sites. >> SEDIMENT CAPTURE PEER REVIEW 4. Sediment Filter Bag Standard Sediment filter bags are a critical component of dewatering systems, as they filter stormwater runoff and capture coarse particles. Recent advancements focus on: • Material Resilience – Nonwoven geotextiles are now standard due to their improved filter capacity and durability. The Committee also recommends materials resistant to ultraviolet (UV) rays to withstand prolonged exposure. • Strategic Placement – Emphasizing level ground installation promotes good functionality and minimizes risks of water bypass. Also, anchoring methods like stakes or sandbags enhance stability. • Inspection Protocols – Guidelines recommend frequent inspection and timely replacement of sediment filter bags to prevent clogging and maintain efficacy. These updates improve the reliability of sediment filter bags across various site conditions. Ongoing Initiatives As the Committee continues its mission, the focus has expanded to developing standards for floating turbidity curtains and hydromulch applications. These standards are expected to be completed in 2025. 1. Floating Turbidity Curtain Standard Floating turbidity curtains are used for controlling sediment in aquatic environments. These curtains are designed to isolate sediment-laden water, which allows particles to settle in an enclosed area. The Committee’s upcoming standard will address key aspects: • Design and Materials – Curtains are crafted from durable geotextile fabrics reinforced with ballast chains and flotation units. The Figure 1. Construction Exit Pad.
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