14 ENVIRONMENTAL CONNECTION / THIRD QUARTER 2025 / IECA.ORG Figure 1. An inflow channel stabilized with geotextile liner and rip-rap. By Matthew Love Effective Design For Sediment Basin Has Four Parts Sediment basins are temporary sediment and erosion control measures designed to capture stormwater runoff on construction sites before off-site discharge. The primary function of these basins is to provide storage volume and time to promote the gravitational settling of soil particles suspended in stormwater runoff. Once these particles fall out of suspension and accumulate on the bottom of the basin, the remaining clarified water can be safely discharged off-site. These enhancements aim to extend the lifespan of construction exit pads and improve their efficiency, particularly in high-traffic construction sites. A well-designed sediment basin consists of four main parts: an inflow channel, a settling pond with porous baffles, a dewatering device and an auxiliary spillway. Part One: Inflow Channel The inflow channel is a channel that collects stormwater and conveys water in a controlled fashion to the inlet of the basin. Temporary or permanent stabilization is important throughout the length of the inflow channel to prevent erosion. Protecting the channel with vegetation, geotextile liners or riprap in place will prevent the channel itself from becoming a source of sediment (Figure 1). Installing ditch checks along the inflow channel allows for initial dissipation and collection of sediment. Capturing rapidly settling soil particles before they enter the basin provides more room in the basin for the EROSION CONTROL PEER REVIEW
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