Erosion and sediment control
Erosion is a natural process caused by the action of wind, rainfall and stormwater runoff on soil. The force of raindrops and surface runoff can detach soil particles, making them available for transportation as sediment. Erosion is influenced by several factors, including soil type, vegetative cover, slope and climate. Sediment in stormwater runoff can pollute downstream waters and degrade aquatic habitats.

The Environmental Protection Agency lists sediment as the biggest pollutant in rivers, streams, lakes and reservoirs. While natural erosion produces nearly 30 percent of the total sediment in the United States, human land use accounts for the remaining 70 percent. Sediment pollution causes $16 billion in environmental damage annually.

Problems caused by sediment

Sediment fills up storm drains that carry water away from roads and homes, which increases the potential for flooding. Sediment in streams alters the stream’s morphology, habitat and chemical makeup. Sediment deposits change flow patterns and cover habitat with mud. Water polluted with sediment becomes cloudy, preventing animals from seeing food and keeps natural vegetation from growing in the water.

Additionally, sediment from urban areas often includes chemicals not usually present in the water, such as excess nutrients from fertilizer. In freshwater like lakes and streams, phosphorus is typically the nutrient limiting plant growth. Increasing its amount leads to algal blooms that are not only unpleasant to look at and swim in, but also reduce food, habitat and even oxygen for fish and other aquatic organisms.

Erosion and sediment control in Lenexa
Construction activity is a primary source of sediment in urbanized areas. Municipalities in urban areas are required by the Clean Water Act to manage the stormwater runoff from construction sites.

In 2001, the City of Lenexa adopted its Land Disturbance Provisions ordinance which is intended to: • Control stormwater runoff from construction sites, • Reduce water pollution and improve water quality and • Protect valuable waterbodies and natural resources.

Under these provisions, any person disturbing more than 100 cubic yards or 5,000 square feet of soil must obtain a permit from the city. Certain activities, including gardening and agriculture, are exempt from this requirement.

If you have questions about Lenexa’s erosion and sediment control program, please contact Rob Beilfuss, Water Quality Specialist or Dale Clark, Erosion and Sediment Control Inspector. Additional information is also available in the Erosion and Sediment Control Program Manual.