BMPs used prior to ground breaking

Construction Sequence and Scheduling

A specified work schedule that coordinates the timing of land-disturbing activities and the installation of erosion and sedimentation control measures.

To reduce on-site erosion and off-site sedimentation by performing land-disturbing activities and installing erosion and sediment control practices in accordance with a planned schedule.

All land-development projects that will disturb more than one contiguous acre.

The general order of construction and planning is:

  • Plan disturbances to coincide with work progress.
  • Order materials to avoid delays
  • Build construction site access
  • Implement sediment traps and barriers,
  • Apply runoff control (diversions)
  • Implement main runoff conveyance system
  • Build stream crossings
  • Land clearing and grading
  • Surface stabilization
  • Building construction
  • Landscaping and final stabilization.

At minimum, the construction sequence should include:

  • Erosion and sedimentation control practices to be installed
  • Principal development activities
  • What measures should be in place before other activities begin
  • Compatibility with the general construction schedule of the contract

When changes in construction activities are needed, amend the sequence schedule as necessary to fit the changes.

Protect Existing Vegetation

A construction management tool that retains site vegetation where possible by designating areas on which vegetation will not be disturbed.

Vegetation helps prevent soil erosion in the following ways:

  • Roots hold soil together
  • Leaves and stems break up rainfall impact
  • Ground cover slows down runoff and filters sediment out of water
  • Plants evapotraspirate water from soil.

Conduct field survey to determine extent of development.

Designate areas of project where existing vegetation will be preserved.

Provide a map outlining these areas to grading personnel.

At a minimum, areas of vegetation should be shown on the grading map and instructions presented as to construction procedures to be followed in and around these sensitive areas, including:

  • Placement of safety fence along the perimeter of protected zones
  • Routine inspection schedule for compliance
  • Remedial measures for repair and maintenance