2002 Annual Report
Extension and Outreach
Erosion/Sediment Control and Management Certification Workshops
Bruce Wilson, Associate Professsor
Kevin Janni, Professor and Head
Leo Holm, Minnesota Department of Transporatation
Dwayne Stenlund, Minnesota Department of Transporatation
Katie Benik, Minnesota Department of Transporation
Lori Betz, Minnesota Department of Transporation
Objective
Erosion from construction activities not only drive costs up by lengthening
the time required to finish projects, they can also result in large fines
for both contractors and agencies. Sediment leaving the site are subject
to National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations.
These regulations are being revised to affect all construction sites with
one acre or more of disturbance. The goal of this workshop program is
help contractors and agency personnel prevent erosion in the first place
by giving installers, managers, and designers the information they need
to prepare and implement erosion and sediment control plans.
Program Description
The program currently consists of two levels of workshops. Level 1, Erosion/Sediment
Control Inspector/Installer, is a one-day course designed for those who
install or inspect the installation of erosion/sediment control devices
and the establishment of vegetation. Both erosion/sediment control techniques
and turf establishment methods are taught, and an overview of permit requirements
is also included. Level 2, Erosion/Sediment Control Site Management, is
a two-day course designed for those who supervise, run, or direct grading
work, culvert replacement work, and bridge construction work over rivers
and streams. It covers permit requirements, roles and responsibilities,
applicable specifications and interpretation, and best management practices
to minimize or control erosion and sedimentation.
Level 3, Design of Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans, which focuses
on the design elements to be included in an erosion/sediment control plan,
is under development. It is anticipated that this workshop will be first
offered in June 2003.
Outcomes
By the time the first workshop season ends in April 2003, about 1500 certifications will have been issued to over 1100 individuals.