One of the most common areas that Shield Engineering provides expertise is in erosion control - it also happens to be one of the most important services that we provide.
Erosion can result in structural instability; creek, stream, and river pollution; the destruction of environmentally-protected lands; and even human disasters. Thankfully, almost all issues that arise from manmade erosion can be prevented with a well-designed erosion control plan.
Erosion and Its Impact
Contrary to popular belief, erosion doesn’t just affect coastlines, and it doesn’t always occur naturally. While heavy rains are often a leading contributor to erosion, much of it starts due to improper storm water management and the disturbance of vegetated grounds and forests. Erosion costs the agricultural industry billions of dollars a year and often creates hazardous conditions for our natural surroundings.
Within construction and civil engineering, erosion control is a primary concern during the construction of modern day developments, including new roadways, buildings, shopping centers, and housing subdivisions. Proper planning, modeling, and implementation of a detailed erosion control strategy are imperative for preserving the natural integrity of our environment for generations to come.
The Components of an Erosion Control Plan
An Erosion Control Plan essentially sets forth best management practices for controlling erosion and sedimentation within a construction site and its surrounding properties.
The main goal is to reduce turbidity and minimize hydrologic challenges. A thorough erosion control plan is usually broken out into numerous sections that include various grading drawings, properly-designed stormwater facilities, and associated details and specifications. In most municipalities, erosion control plans must be produced by a licensed civil engineer and are often required before certain projects may begin construction.
Shield Engineering is often chosen to produce detailed erosion control plans for construction projects across the Carolinas, particularly civil projects. A few of the areas in which our expertise is commonly sought include:
NPDES Permit Applications/Compliance: Managing the discharge of pollutants into a water source.
Stream Restoration: Rehabilitating a once-healthy stream or waterway.
401 & 404 Permitting: Handling federal regulation of wetlands, lakes, ponds, and waterways.
How do our Erosion Control Plans Work?
Shield’s team uses a variety of methods and software to thoroughly and completely evaluate erosion concerns. A few of the techniques we employ include hydraulic design and modeling (underground piping, stormwater basins, above-ground conveyances, etc.), proper design approaches based on professional experience, and familiarity with many of the local municipality design standards. No two projects face the same erosion challenges, which is why it’s critical that Shield’s expertise helps our clients meet and exceed their environmental concerns.
Our staff consists of civil engineers, environmental engineers, geotechnical engineers, structural engineers, and many other highly-educated professionals. Shield Engineering is a one-stop shop for comprehensive engineering and design services, including erosion control.
To speak to someone on our team about your specific needs, contact us today at 704-394-6913.
