In a compost-amended soil area, at what size should erosion control measures such as silt fences be used to reduce erosion and trap sediment?

• A. 2,500 square feet
• B. 1,000 square feet
• C. 3,000 square feet
• D. 5,000 square feet

Answer: (A)

When you’re dealing with a compost-amended soil area, the amount of exposed soil directly affects how much erosion and sediment can be carried away by runoff. Erosion control measures like silt fences are used to slow down flow and capture sediment before it leaves the site, protecting nearby water bodies and improving site stability. The specific trigger for implementing these controls in this scenario is when the disturbed area reaches two thousand five hundred square feet. At that size, the potential for runoff and sediment transport becomes significant enough to warrant installing erosion controls to reduce erosion and trap sediment. If the area is smaller, controls may be used as needed based on conditions or permit requirements, while larger areas typically require ongoing sediment controls and possibly additional BMPs.