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Erosion and sediment control

Prepare for frosty conditions (Nov. 15 - April 15)

Regularly check your site to ensure it complies with the winterization plan and is prepared for various weather conditions, such as high winds or rain/snowmelt.

Ensure your site's winterization preparation plan is reviewed and fully implemented by Sept. 1, 2024. All inlet protection must be removed prior to winter.

Remove inlet controls by Nov. 15, 2024.

Winter tips for your site

Winter construction and site management come with unique challenges. Proper planning and ongoing maintenance are crucial to avoid costly issues and ensure environmental compliance throughout the season. Below are some essential tips to help keep your site safe and efficient during winter months:

1

Seeding for winter stability

Only use dormant seeding prior to snowfall (not on frozen ground or snow).

Applying seed before winter can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion when spring arrives. Choose cold-tolerant grass species that can establish roots before the ground freezes. Seeding is especially useful for inactive sites where ground disturbance is minimal, as it helps reduce runoff and sediment loss during snowmelt.

2

Hydro-mulch for erosion control

Apply when it's above freezing and repair any damaged/removed areas.

Hydro-mulching is an effective way to protect soil during winter months. This liquid mixture of water, mulch, and seed adheres to the ground, providing a protective cover against wind and water erosion. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for application and apply under the appropriate conditions to maximize its effectiveness.

3

Gravel pad for site access and Mud Control

Ensure it's in good condition to handle freeze-thaw cycles. Repair, clean out, and or top dressing may be required.

Inactive site

An inactive site must have short-term cover (e.g. trackifiers, hydro-mulch, etc.) applied. Tackifiers can help increase soil adhesion, reducing dust and offsite drainage. To ensure effective application, follow manufacturer's specifications and apply under appropriate conditions.

If your site is inactive between November 15 to April 15, you may request the City of Airdrie for a reduction of erosion and sediment (ESC) inspection frequency from weekly to bi-weekly or monthly, and after significant rain/melt events through the winter months. Please submit your reduction request to esc@airdrie.ca.

To apply for a reduction in ESC inspection frequency the site must meet the following requirements:

  • There will be little to no activity on site throughout winter;
  • The site matches an approved ESC drawing; and
  • There is no evidence of non-compliance (e.g. dirt ramp, release, socks and donuts, missing mandatory cover).

Active site

Review drawings specific to winter construction in approved ESC plans. Install controls before the ground freezes or identify alternative controls that can be installed afterwards. Ongoing maintenance and repair are required for all active sites.

Mud tracking

  • Use proper entrances and exits (stabilized gravel access, rattle grates, track pads, track out control mats and wheel wash stations) to control mud. Dirt ramps are not permitted as per the City of Airdrie Drainage Bylaws.
  • Limit vehicle movement when ground is wet.
  • Immediately clean up any mud that gets onto City roads.

Image showing snowy and muddy conditions on a roadway with house construction in the backgroundt

Image showing mud prevention

Erosion and sediment control specification

The City of Airdrie adheres to the City of Calgary Erosion and Sediment Control Standard Specifications. Last revised on May 8, 2023.

Remember to submit ESC reports every seven days.
Developers and builders must send ESC inspection reports every seven (7) days for each phase of their developments at esc@airdrie.ca for review. These reports provide an update on the ESC conditions, recommended ESC repair/mitigation measures and track progress on ESC repairs.