There are a number of elements in any construction setting that need to be closely considered by those in charge, and one that absolutely must not be overlooked is stormwater management. Contaminated water from construction sites can make its way to several other areas if stormwater management is not properly carried out, making this process a vital one for any construction project.
At Silver Leaf SWPPP, we're here to help. We offer a wide range of stormwater management solutions for Idaho clients, including everything from risk management assessments to specific services like street sweeping, dewatering and more. In addition, we regularly warn clients about the significant dangers of improper or lacking stormwater management on their sites -- and the fact that they might be held liable if such dangers make their way to other areas. Here are some of the top such dangers that are present if stormwater management is not properly considered.
One of the first and most common dangers of improper stormwater management is erosion. When water from construction sites flows uncontrolled, it can quickly lead to the erosion of important areas around the site. This includes not only the site itself, but also any nearby buildings, roads or other structures.
In addition, this erosion can cause sediment to build up in other areas, including drainage systems and natural waterways. This sediment can clog these areas and lead to a variety of other issues, including flooding.
Speaking of flooding, this is another major danger that can occur if stormwater management is not carried out properly. When water is allowed to flow uncontrolled, it can quickly lead to flooding in low-lying areas. This can damage property, disrupt traffic and even lead to injuries or fatalities.
What's more, this flooding can also contaminate natural waterways with sediment and other pollutants. This can lead to a decrease in the quality of these waterways, and can even make them unsafe for swimming or fishing.
For instance, if a construction site is located near a river, lake or other waterway, any sediment or pollutants that make their way into these bodies of water can quickly spread downstream. This can contaminate drinking water sources and create several other related issues.
One such related issue that may occur if stormwater is not managed properly is the damage of aquatic ecosystems. When sediment and other pollutants enter natural waterways, they can disrupt the delicate balance of these ecosystems. This can lead to a decline in the population of fish, plants and other organisms that call these waterways home.
On top of that, this pollution can also make these waterways unsafe for humans and animals alike. This is why it's so important to take steps to prevent sediment and other pollutants from making their way into natural waterways in the first place.
If too much sediment and other debris make their way into natural waterways, it can lead to the widening of these waterways' channels. This is problematic for a number of reasons. First, it can lead to increased flooding in these areas. Second, it can damage the banks of these waterways, as well as any structures that are located nearby.
And finally, this widening can also lead to the displacement of fish and other aquatic organisms. This can further disrupt the delicate balance of these ecosystems and make it even more difficult for these organisms to thrive.
In some situations, the sediment and other pollutants that come from construction sites can make their way into recreational programs. For instance, if a site is located near a swimming beach, the sediment and other pollutants that enter the water can make it unsafe for swimmers. This can lead to the closure of the beach until the water is clean again.
The same is true for fishing areas. If sediment and pollutants make their way into a body of water that is used for fishing, the area may have to be closed until the water is clean enough for fishing to resume.
This can be problematic for a number of reasons. First, it can lead to the loss of revenue for businesses that rely on these recreational programs. Second, it can cause a decline in the quality of life for people who enjoy these activities.
While this may not be a physical danger in the same way that the other dangers on this list are, it's still important to consider. When sediment and other pollutants make their way into natural waterways, it can lead to a decline in the aesthetic quality of these areas. This can make them less enjoyable for people to visit, and can even lead to a decline in tourism.
All of these dangers underscore the importance of proper stormwater management. By taking steps to prevent sediment and other pollutants from making their way into natural waterways, construction site owners and operators can help to protect the environment and the people who live nearby. This is a vital part of any construction project, and should not be overlooked.
And at Silver Leaf SWPPP, we're here to assist you with all of your stormwater management needs in Idaho. Our programs range from evaluations that help you understand your site's stormwater risks to several specific actions we'll take to improve stormwater management. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you protect the environment and the people who live nearby.
