Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control Computer Modeling Project: Executive Summary (original) (raw)

Sedimentation Control Technical Study Committee ("Dirt 2") members generously shared their extensive knowledge and experience, actively participated through challenging discussions and provided an evolving philosophy of the paradigm shift that is needed to advance the multi-functionality of storm water, erosion prevention and sediment control system design and performance. As Dirt 2 chair, Dr. Benjamin C. Dysart provided continuous real-world advice and guidance, evaluated and critiqued alternative design considerations, and provided an eye towards adoption, implementation, and policy. Dr. Terry Sturm was the chair of the Modeling Element Advisory Committee. He was always available for synergistic conversations, kept the multiple project components on target and always encouraged the systems approach and rigorous scientific inquiry. His reviews of the executive summary and this final report were extensive and always enhanced understandability. The computer modeling advisory group members, Ben Dysart, Phil Freshley, Vince Howard, Earl Jenkins, Bill Jordan, and Karim Shahlaee, actively participated in guiding site selection, individual erosion and sediment control component, monitoring decisions and modeling philosophy. Two individuals substantially contributed to the critical start of this project by providing sites to monitor the performance of current-paradigm sediment control measures. Wayne Woodall arranged access and cooperation at both the residential and commercial sites. James Magnus provided us with one of his highway sites and opened doors for us to learn contractual arrangements that influence construction, maintenance and therefore performance, of sediment controls at highway construction sites. We would like to thank the site owners and project managers that provided not only site access but also support for in-field personnel during the monitoring timeframe. The next large hurdle was to find a cooperator for the full-scale model demonstration site. This was difficult to accomplish because involving us in a project entailed several potential liabilities. The storm water, erosion, and sediment control plan would be quite different from current practice, thus potentially exposing the cooperator to potential cost increases and delays in permitting. The design philosophy of placing sediment control installation on the critical path could increase the overall timeframe for site development and delay completion. A comprehensive monitoring program, with results being readily available to the public, and a highly visible project were other perceived impediments to locating a cooperator. Michael Breedlove expounded the virtues of this demonstration effort. Although there were potential liabilities, there were many and large advantages. Michael secured the willing cooperation of the Fulton County Board of Education and especially the support and commitment of Marcus Ray and Ollis Townes. The Big Creek School site became available for the model demonstration component of the project. Scott Southerland the project architect was very supportive of advancing site capabilities. Michael, and his team of design professionals, worked hand-in-hand with us in every phase of designing and implementing the storm water, erosion, and sediment control plan. He was critically instrumental in creating and accomplishing an incredibly successful project. Larry Hedges and Earl Jenkins encouraged accelerated permitting which was spear-headed by Raymond Wilke. Nothing really happens until a plan is successfully implemented on the ground. The Beers-Moody team of Chris Johnson and Karen Dunsmore, working with IMC's Bill Stinnett on initial earthwork and VECO's Norm Amend, who supervised the installation of most of the small-scale sediment controls, learned these new control measures and taught us the importance of flexibility in translating designs into reality. Fundamental to the project success were the daily inspections conducted by Beers-Moody personnel ensuring the proper functioning of control measures and the overall system. iii Eric Dawalt supervised and conducted soil sample analysis and was the lead contributor to Chapter 8, Cost Methodology of Alternative Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control Systems. Two graduate students in Civil Engineering at Georgia Tech were responsible for on-site data acquisition and maintenance of the eight monitoring systems installed at the Big Creek School site. Diana Weber and Mindy Hoepner ensured that the database was as complete as possible through their dedication.