GUIDELINES

January 2001

Our Business - A Better Brisbane

 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

Contents

1. Introduction ...............................................................1 5. Type F & D basins ....................................................23

Purpose of guidelines .....................................................1 Settling zone volume ....................................................23
Use of guidelines ............................................................1 Sediment storage volume.............................................24
Relationship between guidelines and Outlet system................................................................24
Councils ESC Standard...................................................1 Basin operation .............................................................24
What is a sediment basin................................................1 Sediment flocculation ...................................................25
Types of sediment basins................................................2 Design example ............................................................29
Sediment basin flocculation............................................2 6. Use of Baffles...........................................................31
The importance of sediment basins ...............................2 Introduction...................................................................31
Treatment train concept..................................................3 Baffles used to improve the inlet characteristics ..........31
When is a sediment basin required ................................3 Baffles used to alter the effective length to
2. Design procedure ......................................................4 width ratio .....................................................................31
3. Design information ....................................................9 Baffles used to restrict sedimentation around the
Selection of basin type ...................................................9 outlet structure..............................................................31
Dispersible soils ..............................................................9 7. Soil tests ..................................................................35
Location ..........................................................................9 Jar Settlement Test .......................................................35
Length to width ratio ....................................................10 Aggregate Immersion Test............................................36
Basin inlet......................................................................10 Field Emersion Aggregate Test ....................................37
Inlet chambers ..............................................................10 How to form a bolus .....................................................37
Freeboard......................................................................11 8. RUSLE analysis .........................................................39
Fencing .........................................................................11 Types of soil loss models ..............................................39
Bypassing clean water.................................................12 Limitations of model .....................................................39
Internal batter gradients ...............................................12 RUSLE model ................................................................39
Embankment crest width ..............................................12 R-factor..........................................................................40
Emergency spillway.......................................................12 K-factor..........................................................................40
Outlet protection ..........................................................13 LS-factor ........................................................................42
Maintenance access ......................................................13 P-factor..........................................................................42
Disposal of trapped sediment ......................................13 C-factor .........................................................................43
4. Type C basins ...........................................................14 Example ........................................................................45
Surface area (A) .............................................................14 9. Basin construction and maintenance........................46
Critical sediment size ....................................................15 Specifications and construction details.........................46
Settling zone depth ......................................................15 10. References ...............................................................50
Sediment storage volume.............................................15
Outlet system................................................................15
Perforated riser design .................................................16
Embankment material ...................................................18
Design example ............................................................18
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

1. Introduction

Purpose of guidelines This document has been prepared to provide guidance on Brisbane City Councils
preferred method for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of
sediment basins.

Use of the guidelines The guidelines are recommended for use in all circumstances in which a sediment
basin is operated within the Brisbane region.

These guidelines are not mandatory and designers should use their professional
judgement on the suitability of the guidelines for particular site conditions.
Information contained within this document does not replace the need for site-specific
evaluation, testing and design where it is judged necessary.

The document has been developed from the recommendations presented in the NSW
Department of Housing Managing Urban Stormwater Soils and Construction
(1998). Modifications have been made to the NSW methodology in order to improve
its relevance to Brisbanes soil and weather conditions.

Relationship between Councils Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) Standard aims to:
guidelines and Councils minimise or prevent environmental harm to the Citys waterways and associated
ESC Standard ecosystems
minimise localised flooding caused by sediment runoff
minimise costs to ratepayers resulting from the desilting and dredging of the
Citys waterways.

For many of the Citys soils, the construction and effective operation of a sediment
basin is the only feasible means of controlling the discharge of turbid water and
therefore the only feasible means of achieving the above aims.

What is a sediment basin A sediment basin is a purpose built dam usually containing an inlet structure, a
settling pond, a controlled or free-draining outlet structure, and an emergency
spillway. The storage volume consists of two components, the settling zone and the
sediment storage zone. Sediment basins are designed to trap and retain a wide range
of sediment particle sizes, thereby reducing both the coarse sediment concentration
and turbidity levels within the discharged fluid.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Types of sediment basins There are basically two types of sediment basins; dry basins and wet basins.

A dry basin is designed to commence draining the moment water enters the basin
(i.e. free draining). As a result, a large percentage of the slow settling, clay-size
particles can pass through this type of basin. These basins are referred to as Type C
basins and are only suitable for coarse grained soils.

A wet basin is designed to retain the water for long periods allowing extended time
for the settlement of clay particles or for chemical flocculation. These basins are not
drained until a suitable water quality is obtained within the retained water.

There are two forms of wet basins: Type F basins are used for fine soils that do not
require chemical flocculation; and Type D basins for dispersible soils that require
flocculation.

Sediment basin Soils usually contain a range of particle sizes from very fine clays to coarse
flocculation sands. Fine soil particles, say less than 0.002 mm in diameter, generally pass through
most sediment control structures including sediment fences, aggregate filters, and
non flocculated sediment basins.

Most clay particles can contain a residual negative electro-magnetic charge. Due to
the very small size of the clay particles, this negative charge can have a significant
affect on its ability to settle under gravity. As a result, some clay particles take several
hours to settle, while others may never settle unless the water is treated with a
suitable flocculent.

The job of a flocculent is to effectively break down the dominance of these negative
charges, allowing individual particles to be drawn together and settle under gravity.

The importance of Sediment basins generally perform two functions: firstly to readily settle the coarse
sediment basins sand and silt particles; and secondly to retain large volumes of contaminated runoff to
allow time for gravitational settlement or chemical flocculation of the fine clay
particles.

Because of their ability to reduce the turbidity of contaminated runoff, sediment

basins perform an important function in minimising ecological harm in downstream
waterways.

Sediment entering waterways in Brisbane can produce a range of adverse

environmental impacts. For coarse sediment, these impacts include the smothering of
benthic (bottom dwelling) plant communities and filling of deep pools in urban creeks.
Such pools are important habitats to a variety of aquatic organisms (e.g. fish),
particularly in periods of low flow and hot weather.

For fine sediment, increased turbidity can prevent light from penetrating the water
column, leading to loss of vegetation and associated ecosystems. Perhaps the best
example of the impact of fine sediment is in western Moreton Bay, where a loss of
seagrass meadows has been shown to be linked to sustained periods of high turbidity.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
TECHNICAL NOTE
The general health of a small creek system is usually dominated by the quality of the low flow water, rather than the quality
of flood waters. Generally speaking, in a creek system, the lower the flow rate, the higher the required quality of water.

Therefore, while turbidity control is almost always a concern, this concern increases with decreasing flow rate and with
increasing distance up a creek catchment.

To maintain the health of creek systems, it is important for turbid flood flows to be followed by several days of clean base
flow. In a natural creek system, flood waters are often turbid due to natural erosion and creek meandering. However, after
this turbid flood water has passed down the creek the many pools and riffles are cleaned out by days of clean base flow
originating mainly from groundwater.

In an urban catchment, groundwater flows may be reduced by the introduction of impervious surfaces, but may also be
increased by garden and lawn watering during dry weather. Therefore, the key to maintaining a healthy urban stream is to
establish a catchment drainage system that produces several days of clean low flow water following storm events.

It is for this reason that sediment basins are designed to allow the discharge of
relatively clean water into creeks following periods of rain.

In any event, contaminated runoff from a construction site should be directed through
a sediment basin even if it is already full of turbid water. This is because the coarse
sediment will continue to settle and thus be removed from the discharge.

Treatment train concept Sediment basins, although an important part of any erosion and sediment control
strategy, must be considered as only one carriage in the overall Treatment Train.
The Institute of Engineers publication Soil Erosion and Sediment Control
Engineering Guidelines for Queensland Construction Sites (1996) provides a number
of other techniques suitable for the control of soil erosion and sediment runoff.

It is stressed that the basin or basins must be backed up by appropriate and effective
on-site soil management practices. In most cases the sediment basin should not be
relied upon as the only form of on-site sediment control.

The existence of an effective sediment basin does not remove the need for
appropriate on-site drainage and erosion control.

When is a sediment Sediment basins are usually required when the disturbed area is greater than one
basin required (1) hectare, the disturbed soils are dispersible, and/or when there is a need to control
runoff turbidity. As a general rule, the further upstream a development is within a
catchment, the greater the need for turbidity control.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

2. Design Procedure

Introduction This chapter presents a quick reference summary of the steps involved in the design
of a sediment basin.

Step 1 Assess the need for a sediment basin

(Chapter 1, p.3) Sediment basins are usually required when the disturbed area is greater than one (1)
hectare, the disturbed soils are dispersible, and/or when there is a need to control
runoff turbidity. As a general rule, the further upstream a development is within a
catchment, the greater the need for turbidity control.

When space is limited and the ideal basin cannot be built, then the largest feasible
basin should be built

Step 2 Select basin type

(Chapter 3, p.9) (i) Less than 33% of soil finer than 0.02 mm
Type C basin

(ii) More than 33% of soil finer than 0.02 mm

Type F basin
(iii) More than 10% of soil dispersible
Type D basin

Formal soil testing will generally be required to determine particle size distribution,
Emerson class and dispersion percentage.

Step 3 Determine basin location

(Chapter 3, p.9) Locate basins to maximise the possible collection and treatment of contaminated
runoff. Where possible, locate basins above the Q5 flood level.

Step 4 Divert up-slope clean water

(Chapter 3, p.12) Where possible, upslope clean water should be diverted around the basin to
decrease the required size of the basin and increase the efficiency of the basin. Flow
diversion may need to be altered during the construction phase as new areas of land
are first exposed, then rehabilitated.

Step 5 Size basin

(Chapters 4 & 5) Type C basins:
Pond area at the base of the settling zone = 3400 (0.25 Q1)m2
Basin length should be at least three times the width, otherwise internal baffles may
need to be used . Minimum basin depth is 0.6 metres.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Type F & D basins:
Settling volume [m3] = 400 . Cv . Area [ha] (Brisbane)
= 100 . I 1yr,24hr . Cv . Area (Elsewhere)
where:
I1yr,24hr = Average rainfall intensity for the 1 yr, 24 hr storm.
Volumetric runoff coefficient (Cv):
Cv = 0.5 (open soil) and
= 1.0 (impervious surfaces).
Recommended length to width ratio of 2:1.

Step 6 Determine sediment storage depth

(Chapter 4, p.15 & Type C basins: 100% of settling volume
Chapter 5, p.24) Type F & D basins: 50% of settling volume

Step 7 Assess need for baffles

(Chapter 6) Baffles are used to form an inlet chamber if a high inflow velocity will result in uneven
sediment flow through the basin.

Internal baffles are used to increase the effective length to width ratio of the basin.

An outlet baffle is used to keep settled sediment away from the primary outlet system,
particularly riser pipes.

Step 8 Design primary outlet system

(Chapter 4, p.15) Perforated riser outlets:

Anti-flotation mass = 1.1 times the displaced water mass. Trash rack placed on riser
crest and consideration given to the placement of an anti-vortex plate. Anti-seep
collars (Figure 4.1) must be placed on the buried outlet pipe.

Alternative outlet systems for Type C basins include: rock & aggregate filter dams,
rock and geotextile filter dams (Figure 4.2), gabion walls (Figure 4.3) and sediment
weirs.

Type F and D basins have pumped outlet systems that can discharge the entire basin
in less than 24 hours.

Step 9 Select internal and external bank gradients

(Chapter 3, p.12) Recommended bank gradients are 5:1 (H:V) for unfenced basins, and 2:1 to 4:1 for
fenced basins typically 3:1 (H:V).

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Step 10 Design emergency spillway
(Chapter 3, p.12) (i) Less than 3 months operation Q10
(ii) 3-12 months operation Q20
(iii) Greater than 12 months Q100
(iv) If failure is expected to result in loss of life Probable Maximum Flood (PMF)

Spillway crest to be at least 300 mm above the primary outlet, 300 mm below a bank
formed in virgin soil, and at least 750 mm below a fill embankment. The spillway can
be curved upstream of the crest, but must be straight from the crest to the energy
dissipater.

Step 11 Determine overall dimensions of the basin

(Chapters 4 & 5) If a sediment basin is constructed with 3:1 side slopes, then a typical basin would be 7
to 10 metres longer and wider than the length and width calculated in Step 5 above
(given 0.6 m settling zone depth, 0.3 m spillway freeboard and 0.75 m freeboard for a
fill embankment). It is clearly important to make sure the basin can fit into the
designated area.

Compacted fill embankments should have a freeboard of 0.75 m above the design
surcharge level. The minimum recommended embankment crest width is 2.5 metres.

Step 12 Locate maintenance access ramp for desilting

(Chapter 3, p.13) The basin width should allow for desilting works, otherwise equipment will need to
access the basin for desilting. If trucks need to access the basin, then a maximum 10:1
access ramp will need to be constructed.

If the sediment is to be removed from the site, then a sediment drying area should
exist, adjacent to the basin or somewhere on site within the basins catchment area.

Step 13 Design the inlet system

(Chapter 3, p.10) Protect any inlet chutes with rock or geotextile as appropriate to prevent scouring.
Geotextile inlet chambers should be installed on Type C basins if the expected inflow
velocity exceeds 1 m/s.

Step 14 Assess the need for safety fencing

(Chapter 3, p.11) Safety fencing needs to be considered if settled sediment depths exceed 300 mm,
and/or permanent water levels exceed 150 mm.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Step 15 Define basin operation
(Chapters 4 & 5) An appropriately marked (painted) sediment desilting marker post shall be installed in
the basin.

Type F and D basins should be flocculated if the trapped sediment laden water does
not achieve a desirable standard, usually 50 mg/L total suspended solids (TSS).

See Chapter 5 for more detailed information on flocculation.

Step 16 Define sediment disposal location/method

(Chapter 3, p.13) Trapped sediment can be mixed with on-site soils and buried, or removed from the
site. If sediment is removed from the site, then it should be de-watered first. Removed
sediment should be disposed of so as not to cause an erosion hazard.

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 TABLE 2.1 SUMMARY OF SEDIMENT BASIN TYPES, SOIL TESTING AND SELECTION CRITERIA [1]

Basin type Indicator tests Soil characteristics Basin design capacity = settling zone + sediment storage zone

Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

Settling zone Sediment storage zone

Type C Jar Settlement Test: Less than 33% finer Surface area = 3,400 (Q) [m2] Equivalent to 100% of the settling volume.
Rapid settling of settlement of clay than 0.02 mm. (Brisbane) 177.Area [ha]
Decant time > 24 hours.
coarse sediments particles in less than Q = 0.25 Q tc, 1yr (tc 5 min)
1 hour. Alternatively, use the Revised Universal Soil
Loss Equation (RUSLE) to estimate sediment
Aggregate Minimum depth = 0.6 metres.
runoff volume over the duration of the
Immersion or Field Minimum length to width ratio of 2:1
disturbance, or for the nominated period
Emerson Aggregate with baffles.
between clean-outs, typically 2-3 months.
Test: soil does not Minimum length to width ratio of 3:1
disperse, but may without baffles. A marker peg should be installed to clearly
slake. identify the maximum sediment storage level.

Type F Jar Settlement Test: Greater than 33% finer Capacity to contain runoff from a Equivalent to 50% of the settling volume.
Slow settling of clay particles settle than 0.02 mm. 40 mm, 5-day storm.
Settlement time typically 36-48 hours.
fine sediments in less than 5 days.
Volume [m3] = 400 . Cv . Area [ha]
Alternatively, use RUSLE to estimate sediment
Aggregate (Brisbane)
runoff volume over the duration of the
Immersion or Field
Volume [m3] = 100 . I1yr,24hr .Cv .Area disturbance, or for the nominated period
Emerson Aggregate
(Other locations) between clean-outs, typically 2-3 months.
Test: soil is not
dispersive. Typically, Cv = 0.5. A marker peg should be installed to clearly
identify the maximum sediment storage level
Minimum depth = 0.6 metres.
and the minimum water level (where
Minimum length to width ratio of 2:1. applicable).

Type D Jar Settlement Test: Greater than 33% finer

Flocculated clay particles do not than 0.02 mm; and
settlement of settle in 5 days, or more than 10%
dispersible soils part of the water dispersible material.
remains cloudy.

Aggregate
Immersion or Field
Emerson Aggregate
Test: soil is dispersive.

[1] Basin selection and/or operation may need to be upgraded to a Type F or D basin if turbidity control is judged necessary, or if the approved basin fails to achieve the desired water quality objectives.
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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

3. Design Information

Selection of basin type Basin selection should be based on the known soil conditions using the criteria
provided in Table 3.1. The soil grain size should be determined from the soils that are
likely to erode and flow into the basin. In most cases this means the exposed subsoils.

TABLE 3.1 BASIN SELECTION CRITERIA [1]

BASIN TYPE CATCHMENT SOIL CONDITION

Type C Less than 33% finer than 0.02 mm.

Type F More than 33% finer than 0.02 mm.

Type D More than 33% finer than 0.02 mm, and

more than 10% dispersible materials.[2]

[1] Basin selection and/or operation may need to be upgraded to a Type F or D basin if turbidity control is
judged necessary, or if the approved basin fails to achieve the desired water quality objectives.
[2] Soils that disperse when immersed in water.

Dispersible soils Soils that are considered dispersible have a combined percentage of clay (< 0.002
mm) plus half the percentage of silt (0.0020.02 mm) expressed as a decimal fraction,
multiplied by the dispersion percentage (Richie, 1963) equal to or greater than 10.

Formal soil testing will generally be required to determine whether a soil is dispersible
or not. Informal indicator tests are discussed below.

Two simple tests exist to provide an indication of the existence of dispersible soils: the
Field Emerson Aggregate Test, and the Aggregate Immersion Test (both described in
Section 7).

The Jar Settlement Test is used to provide an indication of the suitability of a Type C,
F or D sediment basin for a given soil type. This test is also described in Section 7.

Location Wherever possible, sediment basins should be located above the estimated 5 year
ARI flood level.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Length to width ratio Restrictions are placed on the shape of the settling pond in order to reduce the risk of
short circuiting. To ensure the optimum sediment trapping efficiency, the distance
between the inlet and outlet of the basin should be the maximum that is practicable.
These restrictions apply to both wet and dry basins.

Minimum length:width = 3:1 (single inflow point)

Minimum length:width = 2:1 (multiple inflow points with baffles)

The effective length of a basin can be increased with the use of baffles. If baffles are
installed, then a check should be made on the potential scour velocity. Further
discussion on the use of baffles is provided in Section 6.

Sediment scour velocities can be determined from Table 3.2.

TABLE 3.2 SEDIMENT SCOUR VELOCITIES

Critical particle diameter Scour velocity

(mm) (m/s)

0.1 0.16

0.05 0.11

0.02 0.07

The crest of these baffles should be set level with, or just below the spillway crest
level. This is to prevent the resuspension of settled sediment during severe storms (i.e.
flood water are meant to flow over the baffles, not around them).

Basin inlet Basin inlet channels should be protected against erosion and scour. This may be
achieved by using a rock or geotextile lined chute.

When sediment is allowed to enter a basin via the permanent stormwater pipe
system, efforts should be made to prevent sediment settling within the stormwater
pipes.

Inlet chambers Inlet chambers are constructed to increase the efficiency of sediment basins by
reducing the occurrence of dead water zones and short circuiting.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
The chambers can be constructed from perforated sediment fence. The perforations
are needed to allow sediment-laden water to flow evenly into both the full width and
depth of the sediment basin. These perforations are also needed to prevent sediment
blockage of the fabric.

Inlet chambers are important on Type C and F basins, and whenever a basin has a
length to width ratio of less than 3:1.

TECHNICAL NOTE

To construct an inlet chamber, perforate a suitable length of woven sediment fabric with approximately 50 mm
diameter holes at 300 mm spacing. These holes should not be placed within the area of fabric that will be located
directly in front of a piped inlet.

Install the sediment fence across the full width of the basin approximately 1 to 2 metres from the inlet. The top of the
fence should be level with the crest of the primary outlet spillway. The spacing between support posts should be 0.5
to 1.0 metres depending on the expected hydraulic force on the fence.

Examples of inlet chambers can be found in the discussion on baffles, Section 6.

Freeboard For compacted earth basins, with catchments of less than fifteen (15) ha, a desirable
freeboard allowance of at least 0.75 m should be provided between the design
surcharge level in the basin and the top of the compacted embankment.

For compacted earth basins, with catchments larger than fifteen (15) ha and for
environmentally sensitive sites, calculation of freeboard should include additional
allowance for the following:
surcharge;
wave action;
clearance; and
embankment settlement.

Fencing Sediment basins located within urban areas should be suitably fenced if:
the settled sediment depths exceed 300 mm; and/or
permanent water depths exceed 150 mm; and/or
if public safety is at risk.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Bypassing clean water To reduce the size of the sediment basin and to increase the overall settling efficiency
of the basin, all reasonable and practicable efforts should be taken to bypass clean
upslope water around the basin.

Clean water may consist of stormwater entering the site from external sources, or
uncontaminated stormwater runoff from roofs, rehabilitated or vegetated areas of the
work site.

Internal batter gradients Internal batter gradients need to be consistent with the requirements of personal
safety and generally within the following upper limits:
Where water depth is less than 150 mm when surcharging, 2:1 to 4:1(H:V) on earth
structures; and gabion basket structures.
Where water depth is between 150 mm and 1500 mm when unfenced and
surcharging, a maximum slope of 5:1(H:V).
Where water depth is between 150 mm and 1500 mm when fenced and
surcharging or greater than 1500 mm:
- 2:1 to 4:1(H:V) on earth structures;
- 1.5:1(H:V) on rock gibber structures;
- 1:4(H:V) on gabion basket structures; and
- 1:4(H:V) on stacked (rough squared) rock structures.

The actual bank gradient will depend on the slipperiness of the saturated sediment,
i.e. whether or not a person can achieve a firm footing and exit the basin. Slippery
sediments should have less steep gradients, in the order of 8:1 (H:V) or even 10:1.
Otherwise, the basin should be fenced.

Embankment crest width The minimum embankment crest width should be 2.5 metres.

Emergency spillway The recommended hydraulic capacity of the emergency spillway is presented in Table 3.3.

TABLE 3.3 HYDRAULIC DESIGN CAPACITY

OUTLET SYSTEM DESIGN ARI

Primary outlet: 1 year (@ 300 mm below emergency outlet)

Emergency spillway outlet:

Less than 3 months operation 10 year
3-12 months operation 20 year
Greater than 12 months 100 year
If failure will result in loss of life Probable Maximum Flood (PMF)

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
The crest of the emergency spillway should be at least:
300 mm above the primary outlet spillway;
300 mm below the crest of any bank constructed in virgin soil; and
750 mm below the crest of any fill embankment (desirable).

All reasonable and practicable efforts should be taken to construct the spillway in
virgin soil, not in fill soil.

The spillways horizontal alignment can be curved upstream of the crest, but must be
straight from the crest to the energy dissipater (Figure 4.1). Ensure that the approach
section has a slope towards the impoundment area of not less than 2% and is flared at
its entrance, gradually reducing to the design width at the spillway crest.

On large side channel spillways, the spillway crest should be level and straight and
have at least a 6 metre weir crest length.

The downstream face of the spillway usually needs to be protected with rock or rock
mattresses.

Outlet protection Appropriate rock protection, or similar, should be placed at the end of the outlet pipe
and spillway to dissipate energy and control undesirable soil erosion.

Maintenance access The basin width should allow for desilting works, otherwise equipment will need to
access the basin for desilting. If trucks need to access the basin, then a maximum 10:1
access ramp will need to be constructed.

If the sediment is to be removed from the site, then a sediment drying area should
exist, adjacent to the basin or somewhere on site within the basins catchment area.

Disposal of Trapped sediment can be mixed with on-site soils and buried, or removed from the
trapped sediment site. If sediment is removed from the site, then it should be de-watered first. Removed
sediment should be disposed of so as not to cause an erosion hazard.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

4. Type C basins

Surface area (A) The critical design parameter in the sizing of Type C basins is the pond surface area
(A). Where possible, the effective surface area of the basin should be maximised.
Note: the effective surface area does not include dead water areas that contain poor
circulation. It is noted that several small basins will not have the same settling
efficiency as a single basin of the same total surface area.

The pond surface area is measured at the base of the settling zone, not at the
maximum pond level. The required surface area is given by equation (1)

A = 3,400 (Q) (1)

where:
A = pond surface area [m2]
Q = design flow rate [m3/s] = 0.25Q tc, 1yr

Qtc, 1yr = peak discharge from a 1 in 1 year (Q1) design storm for the critical
time of duration (tc)

The design flow rate (Q) is assumed to be 0.25 times the critical duration, 1 in 1 year
design storm peak discharge for the catchment flowing to the basin.

When determining the critical duration storm, consideration should be given to the
time of concentration (tc) of the catchment at the time of installation of the permanent
drainage system as this is often the shortest tc during the construction phase. It is
noted that the critical storm duration is determined at the basins inlet, not at the
outlet (i.e. the basin is assumed to be full).

Typically:
tc = 5 minutes;
5
I1 = 117 mm/hr for Brisbane
C1 = 0.64 for vegetated and open soils areas
= 0.80 for impervious areas
where: C1 = the 1 year coefficient of discharge
5
I1 = 5 minute, 1 in 1 year rainfall intensity

In most cases, runoff coefficients should be determined in accordance with the most
impervious condition of the catchment during the construction phase.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Critical sediment size The above design formula (Equation 1) is based on a critical sediment size of 0.02
mm. In areas where the soil has a uniform, coarse-grain size, the critical sediment size
maybe replaced by the D30 grain size (i.e. the grain size of which 30% by weight is
smaller).

The critical sediment size is defined as the smallest grain size the basin is designed to
trap. Hunt (1992) recommends a particle size for which at least 70% of particles are
coarse, with a minimum particle size of 0.02 mm.

If a critical sediment size larger than 0.02 mm is chosen, then the pond size may be
determined from Table 4.1.

TABLE 4.1 PARTICLE SETTLING VELOCITIES

Particle size Settling velocity Basin surface

(mm) (m/s) area (m2/m3/s)

0.1 0.007 140

0.05 0.0019 530

0.02 0.00029 3400

Settling zone depth The settling zone (Figure 4.1) should have sufficient depth to prevent the resuspension
of settled sediment.

Minimum settling zone depth = 0.6 metres

For basins longer than 120 m, the minimum depth is L/200. Where L = basin length [m].

Sediment storage The sediment storage volume (Figure 4.1) may be determined as 100% of the
volume calculated settling zone volume.

Alternatively, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) may be used to
estimate sediment runoff volume over the duration of the disturbance, or for the
nominated period between clean-outs, typically every 2-3 months. Further discussion
is provided in Section 8.

Outlet system The outlet for a Type C basin normally consists of two flow systems, the primary outlet
and the emergency spillway. The primary outlet may consist of a Riser Pipe Outlet
(Figure 4.1), a Rock Filter Dam (Figure 4.2), a Sediment Weir, or Gabion Wall (Figure 4.3).

The primary outlet on a riser pipe system normally contains a low-flow aggregate
filter, and a medium-flow spillway located around the crest of the vertical riser pipe.

15
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
The required hydraulic capacity of each outlet component is listed in Table 4.2.

TABLE 4.2 HYDRAULIC DESIGN CAPACITY

OUTLET SYSTEM DESIGN ARI

Primary outlet: 1 year (@ 300 mm below emergency outlet)

Emergency spillway outlet:

Less than 3 month operation 10 year
3-12 month operation 20 year
Greater than 12 months 100 year
If failure will result in loss of life PMF

The dewatering facility should provide for the settling volume to be removed over an
extended period (minimum 24 hours). This will ensure that basin efficiency is not
adversely affected during smaller inflows, when less settling depth is available.

Perforated riser design The design of any outlet pipe should include allowance for uplifting (buoyancy) forces
on the structure in the form of a weighted concrete base (Figure 4.1). The weight of
the anti-flotation mass should be greater than 1.1 times the weight of water displaced
by the riser.

Inlet An outlet riser pipe can be surrounded with a pyramid of aggregate, or a specially
prepared wire basket filled with rock. The wire basket must be securely fastened to
the riser pipe if it is to also act as an anti-flotation weight.

Hydraulic capacity It is recommended that the primary outlet be designed to discharge the peak flow
from the relevant design storm when the pond water is level with the crest of the
emergency spillway.

The open riser pipe can then be used as a siphon spillway during significant storms or
when blockage of the risers perforations occurs. An enlarged trash and safety screen
may need to be installed on top of the riser.

Freeboard and The crest elevation of the primary outlet should be a minimum of 0.3 m below the
anti-vortex device elevation of the crest level of the emergency outlet. For risers less than 1.5 m high,
fitting an anti-vortex type trash rack is advisable (Figure 4.1).

Minimum size and The minimum size of the barrel for a pipe outlet should be 250 mm diameter. At least
anti-seep collar one anti-seep collar should be placed on the riser pipe to prevent seepage along the
outer surface of the pipe.

Drainage holes Perforation holes in the riser pipe should exist within both the settling and sediment
zones. Drainage holes within the settling zone can be easily sized by use of the orifice

16
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
discharge formula, integrated with respect to the depth or head of water above the
hole. The resulting expression for the area of the orifice is as follows (Goldman et al.
1986):
As (2h) (2)
A0 =
3600 T Cd g

2
where: A0 = surface area of orifice (m )
2
As = surface area of basin (m )
h = head of water above orifice (m)
T = dewatering time (hrs)
Cd = discharge coefficient (adopt Cd = 0.60)
2
g = gravitational constant (9.806 m/s )

When a single large hole is to be used for dewatering, it should be located at the
base level of the settling zone.

To maximise sediment trapping efficiency, several holes of different sizes could be

used within the settling zone, with the size of the holes graded vertically. That is, one
hole is provided at the base level of the settling zone, with progressively larger holes
provided higher up the riser.

When multiple holes are used throughout the settling zone, it becomes necessary to
adjust the relative areas of each hole to provide a suitable overall dewatering period.
This must take into account the variation in head over the dewatering time.

Dewatering holes in the settling zone should be covered with wire mesh (25 to 50 mm
opening) or coarse gravel to prevent blocking by debris, but should not generally be
covered by geotextiles or filter cloths.

Dewatering of the sediment storage zone should be considered so as to facilitate

basin clean-out. Dewatering can be achieved by using filtered holes in the riser,
ideally at the base of the sediment storage zone.

Use of filter cloth It is generally not recommended for filter cloth to be placed around an outlet riser
pipe. However, if filter cloth is to be used, it should not be placed in close contact
with the riser. An air gap is essential between the perforated riser and any geotextile
to allow free draining of the basin.

Wire mesh should be wrapped around and secured to the riser before attaching
geotextile filter cloth, to increase the rate of water seepage into the riser. The fabric
must be replaced after each storm event.

17
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Embankment material The embankment can be formed from earth, rock, gabions or suitable crushed
concrete depending on the preferred drainage system.

Rock filter dams Rock can be used to form a rock filter dam outlet system. In this system a structural
rock wall is constructed as the primary outlet system of the basin. The upstream face
of the rock dam is either lined with aggregate or a layer of needle-punched filter
cloth. It is the aggregate or filter cloth that controls the decant rate and prevents most
of the fine sediment from passing through the dam.

Rock filter dam with aggregate An upstream aggregate layer has the advantage that it can be placed by machinery
and can be readily replaced with a backhoe if it becomes blocked with sediment.
However, some guidelines do not recommend the use of aggregate filter layers
because of reported maintenance difficulties.

Rock filter dam with filter cloth Needle-punched filter cloth has the advantage of being cheap, but its replacement
can be messy and leaks may occur if the replaced filter cloth is not installed properly.
The filter cloth is usually placed over a thin layer of aggregate.

Gabion walls Gabion walls should be lined on the inside with filter cloth, not aggregate. The filter
cloth should not be placed between gabion baskets.

Sediment weirs The design and operation of sediment weir outlet systems is similar to gabion walls.
For further information, refer to the IEAust Guidelines (1996).

Whichever method is used, reverse flush or replace the filter cloth each time sediment
is removed from the basin.

Design example Given conditions:

The total site area is 2 ha. Of this 2 ha, 0.5 ha remains undisturbed and can be
diverted around the basin.

The time of concentration for the catchment = 5 min.

The critical sediment particle size = 0.02 mm.

Step 1 Calculate design flow rate (Q)

Q = (CIA)/360
Runoff coefficient (c) for the 10 year storm (C10) = 0.8 for the disturbed site.
Now; C1 = 0.80 x C10 = (0.80)(0.80) = 0.64

18
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Rainfall intensity (I) for a 5 min storm = 117 mm/hr
Effective catchment area, A = 1.5 ha

Q1 (0.64)(117)(1.5) 3/
= = 0.312 m S
360
Design flow rate:
Q = 0.25(Q1) = (0.25)(0.312) = 0.078 m3/s

Step 2 Calculate basin surface area (As)

2
Surface area: As = 3400(Q) = (3400)(0.078) = 265 m

Step 3 Determine settling zone length, width and depth

Let basin length (L) = 3 times basin width (W)
2
Therefore the surface area As = 3W
Basin width: W = 9.4 m
Basin length: L = (3)(9.4) = 28.2 m
Nominate a settling zone depth of 0.6 m

Therefore the settling zone volume 159 m3 (
106 m3/ha)

Note: at this stage no allowance has been made of the effects of the sloping sides of
the basin. Also, the above dimensions are assumed to exist at the base of the settling
zone.

Step 4 Nominate sediment storage zone volume

Nominate a sediment storage zone depth equal to the depth of the setting
zone = 0.6 m.

Note: the consequence of nominating an inadequate sediment storage volume is an

increase in the frequency of basin desilting. Also, it is always preferable to increase
the surface area rather than increase the settling depth as this improved the basins
efficiency. However, the depth should not be less than 0.6 m.

Alternatively, the sediment storage volume can be determined by estimating the

sediment capture volume using the RUSLE. Example calculations on the use of RUSLE
can be found in Section 8.

19
Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
FIGURE 4.1 TYPE C (DRY) BASIN WITH RISER OUTLET

Emergency spillway
Sediment storage zone

Crest
Outlet
protection
Inflow
Length Width

Earth
Length:width
embankment
ratio 3:1 min.
Primary outlet
Plan View
Riser pipe open at top, fitted with an
anti-vortex device and/or trash rack Crest of
300 mm min. emergency
Sediment settling zone 750 mm min. spillway
Sediment storage 2
zone 1
Inflow Anti-seep collar

3
600 mm min.
1 Primary
outlet
Pipe 250 mm min.
Long section
Weighted base
Outlet protection
Cut-off trench 600 mm
Spacers between min. depth backfilled with
mesh and pipe Flow impermeable clay and
(50 mm min.) Wire mesh compacted
Perforated riser Needle punched
geofabric

2 x (30x30 mm) metal angle

Example only cross pieces attached to top
of outlet as anti-vortex device 350 mm min.

Example only
Flow
150 mm min. 150 mm min.
Originally sourced from NSW
Department of Housing, 1998 Trash rack/anti-vortex device

20
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
FIGURE 4.2 TYPE C (DRY) BASIN WITH ROCK FILTER DAM OUTLET

Side spillway
(first option)
Sediment storage zone
Crest
Centre spillway
(second option)
Inflow
Length
Width

Rock
Length:width
embankment
ratio 3:1 min.
Plan View Needle punched geotextile

Needle punched geotextile placed over

rock wall with ends covered by rock
Sediment settling zone 1
Sediment storage zone 1 Crest of spillway
Inflow 2
500 mm min. 1 Graded rock
600 mm min. 100 mm min. dia.
300 mm min.

Needle punched
geotextile
Long section
20 mm-30 mm Outlet
aggregate to hold protection
geotextile in place 50 mm to 75 mm aggregate

100 mm dia. graded rock

Centre spillway option

500 mm min.

Needle punched geotextile

placed over rock wall

Downstream elevation Originally sourced from NSW

Department of Housing, 1998

21
Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
FIGURE 4.3 TYPE C (DRY) BASIN WITH GABION OUTLET

Sediment storage zone

Centre spillway

Inflow
Length
Width

Length:width Outlet
ratio 3:1 min. protection
Plan View Gabion
Secure geotextile to gabions embankment
with 20 mm to 30 mm
aggregate or other means
Needle punched geotextile

Sediment settling zone

Sediment storage zone 500 mm min. Crest of spillway
Inflow

Outlet
600 mm min.
protection

Long section
Needle punched geotextile
Spillway
500 mm min.

Originally sourced from NSW

Downstream elevation Department of Housing, 1998

22
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

5. Type F & D basins

Settling zone volume To control the turbidity of contaminated stormwater runoff it is usually not feasible to
rely solely on gravitational settlement, especially if the soils are dispersive. Both Type
F and Type D basins are designed to trap and treat a specified volume of stormwater
runoff while allowing excess water to pass through the basin and over the spillway.

Thus the critical design parameter for Type F and D basins is the pond settling
volume. Where possible, the effective settling volume of the basin should be
maximised, but at a minimum depth. Adopting a shallow depth reduces settlement
time which is a critical component in the operation of these basins.

These basins operate on the principle of producing high quality effluent from the
more frequent storm events, while removing only coarse sediment from the larger, less
frequent storm events. Even when the basin is full, contaminated water should
continue to be directed to the basin to allow settlement of the coarse sediments.

The same methodology is used to size both Type F and D basins. The only difference
between the basins is the recommended methods of operation, and the use of
flocculants in the Type D basin.

The settling zone volume is determined as the capacity necessary to contain all runoff
expected from the y percentile, 5-day rainfall event.

Settling volume = 10 . Cv . A* . R y%, 5-day (3)

Cv = the volumetric runoff coefficient [dimensionless]

A* = catchment area draining to the basin [ha]

R y%, 5-day = the 5-day total rainfall depth that is not expected to be exceeded in y% of
rainfall events = 40 mm for Brisbane.

Therefore, the settling volume: Vs = 400 Cv A* [m3] (4)

(Brisbane only)

Outside Brisbane, adopt the following formula; however note, that this formula is only
preliminary, detailed analysis will be required of rainfall patterns in different locations
to confirm the suitability of this formula.

23
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Note that the following section of this guide is currently under review:

Vs = 100 . I1yr,24hr . Cv . A*

where: I 1yr,24hr = Average 1 yr, 24 hr rainfall intensity [mm/hr]

Note: the volumetric runoff coefficient (Cv) is not the same as the discharge runoff
coefficient (C) that is used in the Rational Method for calculating peak strom discharge.

Recommended volumetric runoff coefficients are presented in Table 5.1. Higher values
should be used on sites that have surface sealing soils or have a high level of soil
compaction (e.g. wheel compaction).

TABLE 5.1 VOLUMETRIC RUNOFF COEFFICIENT

Land condition Coefficient (Cv)

Vegetation or open soil 0.5

Impervious surfaces 1.0

Further details on the determination of an appropriate volumetric runoff coefficient

may be obtained from NSW Department of Housing (1998).

Sediment storage volume The sediment storage volume may be determined as 50% of the calculated settling
volume.

Alternatively, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) may be used to
estimate the sediment runoff volume over the duration of the disturbance, or for the
nominated period between clean-outs, typically every 2-3 months. Further discussion is
provided in Section 8.

Outlet system The embankment and outlet system on a Type F and D basin needs to be designed
and constructed such that discharge from the basins settling and storage volume can
be prevented during the settling period. This can be achieved with the construction of
a watertight basin and the use of portable decant pumps.

A standard outlet riser may be constructed to aid in the decanting of these basins, but
a valve system must be installed to regulate discharge during the settling period.

Basin operation Operation of the basin should ensure, where possible, that water has drained from the
settling zone of the basin, and preferably from the sediment storage zone, prior to the
next rainfall event that causes runoff.

24
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Type F and D basins are usually decanted 36 to 48 hours after each storm event.
Where possible, a floating inlet chamber should be used to minimise the
re-suspension and discharge of fine sediment.

If a pump is used to decant the basin, then the decanting must cease prior to settled
sediments being drawn into the intake pipe.

The intake pipe must not be allowed to rest on or near the settled sediment.

TECHNICAL NOTE

One alternative may be to construct a portable intake chamber in which to house the foot valve of the decant pump.
An intake chamber may be constructed from PVC pipe of suitable diameter and length (i.e. for the given foot valve
diameter and pond depth).

The pipe is sealed at one end and a small hole may be placed in this end of the pipe to allow it to fill with water when
first placed in the basin. Large holes are placed in the top (open) end of the pipe to allow water from the surface of
the basin to readily flow into the pipe.

A water-tight drum or other suitable flotation system is then attached to the pipe to enable the top of the pipe to float
near the water surface. This flotation device should aim to hold the open end of the pipe above the settled sediment
when the basin is fully drained, thus preventing the inflow of sediment into the pipe.

A recovery or anchor rope is attached to the open end of the pipe and secured to the bank. The pump intake hose
with foot valve (if attached) is placed into the PVC pipe and the pipe is then placed in the basin.

The aim of the intake chamber is to prevent settled sediment flowing into the decant pump and to allow water to be
discharged only from the surface of the basin.

A marker peg should be installed in the basin to clearly identify both the maximum
sediment storage level.

Sediment extracted from the basin shall be suitably disposed of in sediment dumps,
or mixed with on-site soils in a manner that will not result in unnecessary soil erosion
or sediment runoff from the site. Otherwise, the sediment shall be dried and removed
from the site.

Sediment flocculation Many flocculating agents exist, including gypsum, alum, ferric chloride, ferric sulfate,
polyelectrolytes (long-chain natural and synthetic organic polymers) and salt (sodium
chloride). Gypsum and alum have traditionally been applied to captured stormwater

25
Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
runoff. Gypsum (calcium sulfate) and alum (aluminium sulfate) are suitable chemicals
for this purpose and are applied within 24 hours of the conclusion of each storm event
as follows:

Application (i) in larger ponds - mixed into a slurry with water and then sprayed over the pond
surface; or

(ii) in smaller ponds and tanks - by simply broadcasting it over the surface by hand.

Whichever method is chosen, it is essential that the flocculating agent is spread

evenly over the entire pond surface for proper treatment of water unless local
experience or other criteria suggest differently.

Gypsum should be applied at a rate of about 32 kilograms per 100 cubic metres of
stored water. Conversely, alum should be applied at 1.5 to 8 kilograms per 100 cubic
metres of stored water (higher rates are more effective but can influence water pH
more).

Care should be taken with the choice of an agent, its dosing rate and any special
conditions to ensure that toxic situations are not created with consequent damage to
the ecology.

In areas where repeated high intensity storms are likely, it is recommended that
gypsum dosage rates be increased to 70 kilograms per 100 cubic metres. Depending
on the clay mineralogy, this can achieve flocculation within 24 hours allowing
discharge within two days from the conclusion of a storm.

Effectiveness of agents When choosing a flocculating agent, note that:

3+
(i) the trivalent positive aluminium (Al ) ion is 2,000 times more effective than the
monovalent positive sodium (Na1+) ion; and
2+
(ii) the bivalent positive calcium (Ca ) ion is only 50 times more effective than sodium
(Barnes, 1981).

As such, alum produces a faster flocculation rate than gypsum, which has been shown
for sediment basins in New South Wales (Goldrick, 1996). Table 5.2 below summarises
some characteristics of common flocculating agents. Trials should be conducted on
samples to determine the most appropriate dosing rate to reduce the likelihood of
excessive dosing.

The use of alum as a flocculant is only recommended when it is used under

controlled circumstances and by users that are aware of the potential downstream
risks to the environment.

Details of the flocculation and decanting procedures should be provided in the

Erosion and Sediment Control Program.

26
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
TABLE 5.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF VARIOUS FLOCCULATING AGENTS

(adapted from Freeman and Howells, 1995)

AGENT INDICATIVE COMMENTS PRECAUTIONS AND

DOSAGE CONSTRAINTS

Gypsum 32 kg/100 m3 Little pH change, slight increase Needs to be spread evenly across
(calcium sulphate) in salinity. pond, can cause scum deposits in
equipment.

Alum 1.5-8 kg/100 m3 Produces stable sludge that binds Likely toxic impacts on ecology at
(aluminium sulfate) pollutants, optimum pH 6 to 7.4. pH levels < 5.5 due to release of
Do NOT overdose as pH will be dissolved aluminium. Must only be
lowered. used in controlled conditions.[1]

Ferric chloride 1-3 kg/100 m3 pH greater than 5 is required or it Is very corrosive, needs rubber or
might lower oxygen levels. glass containment. Do not
overdose.[1]

Ferric sulfate 1-2.5 kg/100 m3 pH greater than 5 is required. Stored in wooden containers.
Do not overdose.[1]

Polyelectrolytes 0.05-0.2 kg/100 m3 Careful preparation needed and A few are banned for use with
(long chained polymers) adequate mixing with water body potable water in some countries
needed, little pH or salinity due to possible monomer
change, might be toxic. impurities, do not overdose.

Salt 5.25 m3 seawater Flocculation is complete for some Only used when the sediment
(sodium chloride) per 100 m of 3
clays with 2000 to 3000 mg/L, basin discharges directly to sea
fresh water little extra benefit is gained when water. Note: sea water contains
the salinity is above 10,000 mg/L. approximately 35,000 mg/L salt.

Notes [1] The pH of the water in the basin must be in the range of 6.58.5 before release.

Settlement time Normally, sufficient sediment will have flocculated and settled within about 36 to 72
hours in the case of gypsum.

Expected water quality Following flocculation, a total suspended solid (TSS) content of less than about 50
milligrams per litre is typically achievable. A practical field test that approximates this
level is to fill a clear plastic or glass 65 mm diameter soft drink bottle with the water
and hold it up to the light. If seeing clearly through the sample is not possible, it is
probably above about 50 milligrams per litre and needs further treating.

27
Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
The pH of the flocculated water must be in the range 6.5 to 8.5 prior to discharge. If this
is not achieved, pH adjustment may be necessary (e.g. dosing with lime to raise pH).

Site calibration Despite the above comments, each pond should be calibrated after the first two
storm events to assess the actual flocculent application rate and settling time
required. Standard jar tests are the usual method (Barnes, 1981).

In some situations it might be necessary to test water samples in a laboratory before

discharge to prove that the suspended solid content is, in fact, below recommended
levels, e.g. where the receiving waters are particularly sensitive. In these cases,
sampling details should be clearly set out on the sites Erosion and Sediment Control
Program.

The final application rate should be sufficiently high to permit sediment flocculation
and pond discharge within two to four days from the conclusion of each storm event,
whilst maintaining other required water quality criteria such as pH.

Water discharge The water can be discharged from the basin once the suspended solid load has been
lowered to an acceptable level. Achieve discharge with a system that:

(i) permits drainage of the pond in less than 24 hours; and

(ii) has a floating inlet to prevent flocculated sediments being removed as well - it is
essential that materials from the sediment layer are not discharged in the pumping
process.

Warnings (a) With use of alum, accurate measurement of water pH must be undertaken to
ensure that values remain in the range of 6.5 to 8.5. Values lower than pH 5.5 will
result in environmentally toxic concentrations of soluble aluminium that can kill fish
and other aquatic life. Further, treated waters should not be discharged if the pH is
below 6.5 unless site-specific environmental risk assessment shows that it is safe to
do so.

(b) Excessive dosing with polyelectrolytes can:

result in the release of materials that can kill fish and other aquatic life; and
reduce the effectiveness of the flocculent.
It is understood that the Polyelectrolyte Suppliers Group is producing a manual for
polyelectrolyte use called Responsible Care Guidelines for Use to advise on these
and other matters.

28
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Design example Given site conditions:

Total catchment area draining to the basin = 1.2 ha. It has been judged that the basin
will be at its design limit when 0.8 ha of the site is open earth and 0.4 ha is sealed
surface. Soil tests indicate that site soils contain 20% clay (< 0.002 mm), 18% silt
(0.002 mm), 18% silt (0.0020.02 mm) and a dispersion index of 40%.

Step 1 Determine the volumetric runoff coefficient

Given Cv = 0.5 for open soil
Cv = 1.0 for sealed surfaces
The effective Cv = [(0.8)(0.5) + (0.4)(1.0)]/1.2 = 0.667

Step 2 Calculate settling volume

Vs = 400.Cv.A
Vs = (400)(0.667)(1.2) = 320 m3 (266 m3/ha)

Step 3 Choose basin dimensions

Nominate a settling depth of 0.6 m
Surface area approximately equals 533 m2 at the base of the setting zone.
Let L = 3W
Therefore, W = 13.3 m and L = 40 m

Step 4 Determine the sediment storage volume

3
Select a sediment storage volume equal to half the settling volume = 160 m

2
At a surface area of around 533 m (not allowing of the effects of the sloping sides),
the sediment storage depth will be slightly deeper than 0.3 m.

Step 5 Determine whether the basin will be managed as a Type F or D

Soils that are considered dispersible have a combined percentage of clay (< 0.002 mm)
plus half the percentage of silt (0.0020.02 mm) expressed as a decimal fraction,
multiplied by the dispersion percentage (Richie, 1963) equal to or greater than 10.

Given 20% Clay

18% Silt
40% Dispersion Index

Therefore (0.20 + 0.09) x 40 = 11.6%.

Thus greater than 10% of soil is dispersible and a Type D basin is required.

29
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
FIGURE 5.1 TYPE F AND D (WET) SEDIMENT BASIN

Spillway

Sediment storage zone

Crest

Inflow
Length
Width

Length:width Earth
ratio 3:1 min. embankment

Plan view

Original ground level 2 min.

Sediment settling zone 1 3 min.
Sediment storage zone 1
Inflow 750 mm min.

Crest of spillway
600 mm min.

Water depth
1500 mm min.
Cut-off trench 600 mm
min. depth backfilled with
Long section impermeable clay and
Originally sourced from NSW
Department of Housing, 1998 compacted

30
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

6. Use of baffles

Introduction Baffles are used in sediment basins to improve the efficiency of the basins settling
characteristics and to keep coarse sediment away from the outlet system.

Baffles used to improve If sediment-laden water is allowed to enter the basin at high velocity, then a
the inlet characteristics submerged jet can be formed that propels the sediment towards the outlet end of the
basin. In Type C basins, this jetting action can significantly reduce the efficiency of the
basin.

An Inlet chamber can be used to control jetting and allow sediment-laden water to
enter evenly across the full width and depth of the basin. These chambers can be
constructed using baffles as described in Section 3 of the guidelines.

Baffles used to alter the The effective length of a basin can be increased with the use of baffles. If baffles are
effective length to width installed, then a check should be made on the potential scour velocity.
ratio Sediment scour velocities can be determined from Table 6.1.

TABLE 6.1 SEDIMENT SCOUR VELOCITIES

Critical particle diameter Scour velocity

(mm) (m/s)

0.1 0.16

0.05 0.11

0.02 0.07

The crest of these baffles should be set level with, or just below the spillway crest
level. This is to prevent the resuspension of settled sediment during severe storms (i.e.
flood waters are meant to flow over the baffles, not around them).

Baffles used to restrict Maintenance of a sediment basin can be expensive if the outlet system of a basin
sedimentation around becomes blocked with sediment or the outlet is damaged during the desilting
the outlet structure procedure. A sediment fence baffle constructed around the outlet system limits the
flow of coarse sediment around the outlet and may also improve the hydraulic
efficiency of the basin.

31
Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
FIGURE 6.1 INTERNAL FLOW CONTROL BAFFLES
Outlet

Inflow

Ba
ffle
L2
L1
(a)

If the outlet is
located here, a
baffle is required
If the outlet
L2
is placed
here, no baffle L1
Baffle
is required
(b)

Inflow
Outlet

L2 L1
Baffle

In this case it is
important to place
(c) Inflow the baffle so that
L1 = L 2
Sheets of 1200 mm x 400 mm x 13 mm
marine plywood or sediment fence fabric

RL of primary outlet
crest

Posts: minimum of
100 mm square or
130 mm round and set
sufficiently deep to ensure
Elevation of 1200 mm stability in the design
basin bottom centres storm event
(d)

32
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
FIGURE 6.2 INLET AND OUTLET CONTROL BAFFLES (PLAN VIEW)

Inlet Primary outlet

Flow

Outlet baffle
Inlet chamber baffle

FIGURE 6.3 INLET AND OUTLET CONTROL BAFFLES (LONG SECTION)

Outlet baffle
Emergency
Inlet chamber baffle Primary outlet spillway
Inlet

Settled sediment

Anti-seep collars
Anti-flotation mass

33
Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
FIGURE 6.4 INLET CHAMBER BAFFLE

0.5 - 1.0 m

0.3 m
Sediment
fence
fabric not
filter cloth

0.05 m
Flow

Inlet chamber baffle

34
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

7. Soil tests

Jar Settlement Test The Jar Settlement Test provides an indication of the settling characteristics of a soil.
This is simply an indicator test and cannot be used to justify a sediment basin design
or operating procedure.

Equipment:
clear jar with water tight lid (e.g. 250 ml glass jam jar);
distilled or de-ionised water (available at service stations).

Procedure:
3
Place a small hand full of crushed soil into the jar (approximately 100 ml or 10 cm ).
Fill the jar with distilled or de-ionised water and shake the jar vigorously to disperse
the soil into its sand, silt and clay particles.

Place the jar on a solid surface where it can remain undisturbed for at least 5 days.

Results:
The sand-size particles should settle within a minute followed by a wave of silt-size
particles over the next few minutes.

If the clay particles settle within an hour, leaving clear or near-clear water above the
settled soil, then the soil is likely to be suitable for treatment by a Type C sediment
basin.

If the clay particles settle within 5 days, leaving clear or near-clear water above the
settled soil, then the soil is likely to be suitable for treatment by a Type F sediment
basin.

If the clay particles fail to settle, then it is likely that it is a Type D soil and chemical
flocculation of the sediment basin will be required.

Discussion:
This should only be considered as an indicator test because in a real basin some non-
dispersive soils may settle rapidly due to the fine clay particles remaining bound to
other soil particles or held in small clumps. With such soil, their actual settling
characteristics may depend on how much disturbance the clay particles experience in
their travels from the disturbance area to the basin.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Aggregate Immersion Test The Aggregate Immersion Test is similar to the Field Emerson Aggregate Test
described below, except undisturbed samples of the soil are tested rather than a
formed bolus.

Equipment:
open dish or jar (e.g. white plastic breakfast bowl); and
distilled or de-ionised water (available at service stations).

Procedure:
Fill the dish or jar with distilled water to a depth sufficient to cover the soil samples.
Gently place several dry, hard clumps of soil (about 5 mm square) in the water dont
put the soil in the dish before the water is added.

Leave an hour, and do not disturb the water during the test.

The clumps of soil will completely collapse if the soil is slaking or dispersible. Highly
dispersible or slaking soils will collapse in less than 10 minutes. A cloudy ring will be
seen around the collapsed soil when it is dispersible.

Slaking soils must be distinguished from dispersive soils. Slaking soils readily break
down in water, but they do not disperse (cloud the water).

In this test, some potentially dispersive soils may take more than 10 minutes to
respond because the dispersive clay particles may be locked inside areas of non-
dispersive soil. In the Field Emerson Aggregate Test dispersive soils react faster
because a reconstituted bolus of soil is first formed.

Results:
Non-dispersive: Water remains clear though particles may slightly collapse. The
boundary of clumps remains clearly defined.

Slightly dispersive: Discolouration surrounding particles or distinct cloudiness

surrounding some. Boundary of clumps vaguely defined.

Dispersive: Dispersive and cloudiness surround most or all particles (extending

vertically). Boundary of clumps not able to be defined.

Highly dispersive: Discolouration extending vertically throughout most or all water.

Slightly slaking: Water remains clear. Boundary of clumps vaguely defined.

Slaking: Water remains clear. Boundary of clumps not able to be defined.

The clumps completely collapse and spread horizontally.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Field Emerson The Field Emerson Aggregate Test is based on the Emerson Aggregate Test
Aggregate Test (Emerson, 1967). This test is described in NSW Department of Housing (1998) and is
detailed below.

Equipment:
clear glass container; and
distilled or de-ionised water (available at service stations).

Procedure:
In this test, a sample of soil material is taken from the likely sediment source and
worked up as a bolus. Next, a 5 to 10 mm cube of the bolus material is placed gently,
in a clear glass container previously filled with sufficient distilled water to cover the
soil. It is left to stand undisturbed for about 3 minutes, with any change in condition
noted.

Results:
One of two conditions is likely to occur:
there will be no change; or
the sample will slake and/or disperse.

If there is no change or the sample slakes, further laboratory testing should not be
necessary. However, if any of the bolus disperses and goes into suspension (the water
becomes milky), undertake laboratory testing to ascertain whether more than 10
percent of the soil materials are dispersive. Note that the more material that goes into
suspension, the more dispersive is that sample.

Slaking soils must be distinguished from dispersive soils. Slaking soils readily break
down in water, but they do not disperse (cloud the water).

How to form a bolus To form a bolus, first ensure that your hands are clean particularly, free of grease or
oil a sample of soil that can comfortably fit into the palm of the hand is then taken.
Crush the soil structure with a pestle and mortar and pass it through a 2 mm sieve to
remove any gravel or coarser materials.

Water is then added very slowly and the sample kneaded until all structure is broken
down and the ball of soil just fails to stick to the fingers. More water or soil can be
added to attain this condition called the sticky point, this approximates the field
capacity for that soil.

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Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Continue kneading and moistening until there is no further apparent change in the
soil ball, usually about 2 or 3 minutes. The soil ball so formed is called a bolus.
Note; some soils:

(i) feel sticky as soon as water is added, but lose the condition as the bolus is formed
or at least until the sticky point is reached;

(ii) are far stickier than others; and

(iii) are very much harder to knead than others, e.g. heavy clays.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

8. RUSLE analysis

Types of soil loss models There are a number of models currently available to assist in the estimation of soil
runoff rates. These include, the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE), the Revised
Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE), the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation
(MUSLE), CREAMS and the Australian SOILOSS program.

In this document the RUSLE method is recommended for the prediction of soil loss
rates. RUSLE is designed to predict the long term, average, annual soil loss from sheet
and rill flow at a given location.

Limitations of model The main limitations of the RUSLE method are that it:

(i) only predicts soil erosion and cannot predict the actual amount of soil entering a
given basin;

(ii) predicts annual sediment runoff, not that expected from a given storm or over a
given period less than 12 months;

(iii) only considers soil runoff caused by sheet and rill erosion and does not account for
erosion caused by concentrated flow; and

(iv) does not adequately account for soil dispersibility.

RUSLE model The RUSLE model calculates annual erosion rates using the following formula:

A = R . K . LS . P . C (5)

where:
A = annual soil loss due to erosion (tonnes/ha/yr)
R = rainfall erosivity factor
K = soil erodibility factor
LS = topographic slope/length factor
P = erosion control practice factor
C = cover and management factor

The annual soil loss rate (A) needs to be multiplied by several factors before an
estimate can be obtained of the volume of soil trapped by a basin.

Vs = K1 . K2 . K3 . K4 . A (6)

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
where:

Vs = Expected volume of captured sediment [m3]

K1 = inverse of settled soil bulk density, typically 0.80 m3/tonnes

K2 = area of exposed soil [ha]

note: this may be less than the effective catchment area discharging to the
basin because it does not include non erodible surfaces such as sealed surfaces
and well-vegetated areas

K3 = duration of exposure [years]

note: if the exposure of a site is expected to change significantly over a long
period, then soil loss estimates may be determined for periods of say 1 month
over the duration of the disturbance

K4 = expected capture percentage of soil particles

= percentage of soil particles larger than the critical sediment size,
usually = 0.02 mm

R-factor The R-factor is derived from probability statistics resulting from analysing rainfall
records of individual storms. The R-factor may be determined from the following
formula:

6
R = 29.22 ( I2)1.89 (7)

Where, 6I2 is the 2 year ARI [mm/hr], 6 hour average storm intensity.

For Brisbane: 6I2 = 13.33 mm/hr R = 3900

K-factor For most construction sites, the K-factor should be determined for the exposed
subsoils. Unfortunately, most K- factors in Queensland have been determined for
topsoils the soils most commonly exposed in farming practices.

The IEAust Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines (1996) provide K-factors for
various soils in Queensland. Table 8.1 provides K-factors for some subsoils. K-factors
for various topsoils may be found in the IEAust guidelines.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
TABLE 8.1 MEASURED K-FACTORS FOR QUEENSLAND SUBSOILS

Subsoil Location K-factor

SI units

Solodic B horizon Gatton-Esk Road 0.068

Solodic B horizon Plainlands 0.035

Solodic B horizon Hattonvale 0.049

Generally the K-factors range from 0.005 (very low), to 0.040 (high) to 0.075 (extreme).

To account for soil dispersion, the K-factor should be increased by 20% for all
dispersible soils.

In the absence of proper soil testing, K-factors may be determined from Table 8.2

TABLE 8.2 APPROXIMATE K-FACTORS DERIVED FROM SOIL TEXTURE

FOR USE IN RUSLE (SCS, 1993)

SOIL TEXTURE SYMBOL K-FACTOR SOIL TEXTURE SYMBOL K-FACTOR

Sand S 0.015 Clay loam CL 0.03

Clayey sand CLS 0.025 Silty clay loam SiCL 0.04

Loamy sand LS 0.02 Fine sandy clay loam FSCL 0.025

Sandy loam SL 0.03 Sandy clay SC 0.017

Fine sandy loam FSL 0.035 Silty clay SiC 0.025

Sandy clay loam SCL 0.025 Light clay LC 0.025

Loam L 0.04 Light medium clay LMC 0.018

Loam, fine sandy Lfsy 0.05 Medium clay MC 0.015

Silt loam SiL 0.055 Heavy clay HC 0.012

Note: The suggested K-values are for the mid points of a texture class. Use average values for soils which lie between classes.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
LS-factor The LS-factor is a numerical representation of the length- slope combination. The LS-
factor may be obtained from Table 8.3, (NSW Department of Housing, 1998).

TABLE 8.3 LS-FACTORS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES FOR USE IN THE RUSLE

SLOPE SLOPE SLOPE LENGTH (M)

RATIO %
5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

100:1 1 0.09 0.11 0.13 0.15 0.16 0.17 0.18 0.19 0.19 0.20 0.20
50:1 2 0.14 0.18 0.24 0.28 0.31 0.34 0.36 0.39 0.41 0.43 0.44
33:1 3 0.17 0.24 0.34 0.41 0.47 0.52 0.57 0.61 0.65 0.69 0.72

25:1 4 0.21 0.30 0.44 0.54 0.63 0.71 0.78 0.85 0.91 0.97 1.03
20:1 5 0.24 0.36 0.54 0.68 0.80 0.91 1.01 1.10 1.19 1.27 1.35
16.6:1 6 0.28 0.42 0.64 0.81 0.97 1.11 1.24 1.36 1.47 1.58 1.68

12.5:1 8 0.34 0.53 0.83 1.08 1.31 1.51 1.70 1.88 2.05 2.21 2.37
10:1 10 0.42 0.68 1.09 1.44 1.75 2.04 2.31 2.56 2.81 3.04 3.27
8.3:1 12 0.52 0.85 1.39 1.85 2.27 2.66 3.02 3.37 3.70 4.02 4.33

7.1:1 14 0.62 1.02 1.69 2.26 2.79 3.28 3.74 4.18 4.61 5.02 5.42
6.3:1 16 0.71 1.19 1.98 2.67 3.31 3.90 4.46 5.00 5.52 6.02 6.51
5.5:1 18 0.80 1.35 2.27 3.07 3.82 4.51 5.17 5.81 6.42 7.02 7.59

5:1 20 0.89 1.50 2.55 3.47 4.32 5.12 5.88 6.61 7.32 8.01 8.68
4:1 25 1.09 1.88 3.23 4.43 5.54 6.59 7.60 8.57 9.51 10.43 11.32
3.3:1 30 1.28 2.23 3.86 5.32 6.69 7.99 9.23 10.43 11.60 12.74 13.85

2.5:1 40 1.61 2.83 4.98 6.92 8.74 10.48 12.15 13.77 15.34 16.88 18.39
2:1 50 1.88 3.33 5.89 8.22 10.42 12.52 14.55 16.52 18.44 20.32 22.16

P-factor The P-factor measures the combined effect of all support practices and management
variables. It also represents structural methods for controlling erosion.

The P-factor is reduced by practices that reduce both the velocity of runoff and the
tendency of runoff to flow directly downhill. At construction sites, it reflects the
roughening or smoothing of the soil surface by machinery. The P-factor may be
obtained from Table 8.4 (after NSW Department of Housing, 1998).

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
TABLE 8.4 P-FACTORS FOR CONSTRUCTION SITES

SURFACE CONDITION P-FACTOR

Compacted and smooth 1.3

Track-walked along the contour 1.2

Track-walked up and down the slope 0.9

Punched straw [1] 0.9

Loose to 0.3 metres depth 0.8

[1] Straw mulch punched into loose ground with a disc harrow.

C-factor The C-factor measures the combined effect of all the interrelated cover and
management variables. It also represents non-structural methods for controlling
erosion.

C-factors may be obtained from Table 8.5 (after NSW Department of Housing, 1998).

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
TABLE 8.5 C-FACTORS FOR CONSTRUCTION SITES

TYPE OF COVER C FACTOR

No mulching or seeding, no plant roots 1.00

Little or no aboveground plant material but roots still intact and undisturbed 0.45

Open weave jute mesh (<40% coverage of soil this is not jute mat) 0.40

Straw anchored to soil:

(i) 2.2 tonnes/ha and
(a) 6 10% slope, up to 30 m long 0.20
(b) 5% slope, up to 60 m long 0.20

(ii) 4.5 tonnes/ha and

(a) 34 50% slope, up to 10 m long 0.20
(b) 26 33% slope, up to 15 m long 0.17
(c) 21 25% slope, up to 22 m long 0.14
(d) 16 20% slope, up to 30 m long 0.11
(e) 11 15% slope, up to 45 m long 0.07
(f) 6 10% slope, up to 60 m long 0.06
(g) < 5% slope, up to 120 m long 0.06

Woodchip applied at:

(i) 16 tonnes/ha and
(a) 16 20% slope, up to 15 m long 0.08
(b) 15% slope, up to 22.5 m long 0.08

(ii) 27 tonnes/ha and

(a) 21 33% slope, up to 22.5 m long 0.05
(b) 16 20% slope, up to 30 m long 0.05
(c) 15% slope, up to 45 m long 0.05

(iii) 56 tonnes/ha and

(a) 34 50% slope, up to 22.5 m long 0.02
(b) 21 33% slope, up to 30 m long 0.02
(c) 16 20% slope, up to 45 m long 0.02
(e) 15% slope, up to 60 m long 0.02

Woven straw blanket 0.08

Seeded grasses after 60 days (average conditions using perennial rye or millet) 0.05
Bitumen emulsion (12,000 L/ha) 0.02
Jute fine mat (100% coverage of soil) 0.01
Turf (100% coverage of soil) <0.01
Undisturbed native vegetation or well established grass (100% coverage) <0.01

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Example Given:
R = 3900 (Brisbane)
K = 0.04 Assumed soil type
LS = 2.05 Average 80 metres at 8% slope
P = 1.3 Typical rubber tyre compacted soil
C = 1.0 Worst case before mulching

Soil bulk density (K1)= 0.8 m3/tonne (1.25 tonnes/m3)

Disturbed construction area (K2)= 2 ha
Construction period = 8 months (i.e. K3 = 8/12)
80% of soil particles larger than 0.02 mm (i.e. K4 = 0.8)

Calculation:
A = R.K.LS.P.C
= (3900)(0.04)(2.05)(1.3)(1.0)
= 416 tonnes/ha/year

Vs = K1.K2.K3.K4.A
= (0.8)(2)(8/12)(0.8)(416)
= 355 m3

On a real site, these calculations would be broken down into approximately two-week
or one-monthly periods and the various factors calculated separately for the expected
site condition during each of these periods. This would allow for the effects of
progressive disturbance of the site as well as progressive stabilisation.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

9. Basin construction & maintenance

Specifications and The following is the recommended construction specifications for sediment basins.

Construction Details

Construction 1. Refer to approved plans for location, extent, and details. If there are questions or
problems with the location, extent, or methods of installation, contact the
engineer or responsible on-site personnel for assistance.

Site preparation: 2. Before starting any clearing or construction, have all the necessary materials and
components on the site to avoid delays in completing the pond once work
begins.

3. Clear, grub and strip topsoil from areas under the proposed embankment. Delay
clearing the basin area until the dam is complete.

4. Stockpile all topsoil for use on the embankment.

5. Place temporary sediment control measures below the basin as required.

Cutoff trench: 6. Excavate a cutoff trench along the centerline of the earth fill embankment. Cut
the trench to stable soil material, but in no case make it less than 600 mm deep.
The cutoff trench must extend into both abutments to at least the elevation of
the riser pipe crest. Make the minimum bottom width wide enough to permit
operation of excavation and compaction equipment, but in no case less than
600 mm. Make the side slopes of the trench no steeper than 1:1.

7. Any water that accumulates in the trench must be removed. The trench must be
backfilled with soil of the same quality as that to be used in the dam.
Compaction requirements are the same as those for the embankment.

Embankment: 8. Take fill material from the approved areas shown on the plans. It should be clean
soil, free of roots, woody vegetation, rocks and other unsuitable material. Scarify
areas on which fill is to be placed before placing the fill.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
9. The fill material must contain sufficient moisture so it can be formed by hand into
a ball without crumbling. If water can be squeezed out of the ball, it is too wet
for proper compaction. Place fill material in 150 to 250 mm continuous layers
over the entire length of the fill area and then compact it.

10. Unless otherwise specified on the approved plans, compact the soil at about 1-
2% wet of optimum and to 95% modified or 100% standard compaction.

11. Construct the embankment to an elevation 10% higher than the design height to
allow for settling.

12. Do not use the embankment as a dump for debris from building the settling
pool.

Conduit outlet: 13. Drill dewatering holes in the riser as specified on the plan.

14. Securely attach the riser to the conduit or conduit stub to make a watertight
structural connection. Secure all connections between conduit sections by
approved watertight assemblies. Attach the anti-seep collars to the conduit as
shown on the approved plan. Place the conduit and riser on a firm, smooth
foundation of impervious soil. Do not use pervious material such as sand,
gravel, or crushed rock as backfill around the conduit or anti-seep collars.

15. Place fill material around the conduit in 100 mm layers and compact it under and
around the pipe to at least the same density as the adjacent embankment. Care
must be taken not to raise the pipe from firm contact with its foundation
when compacting under the pipe haunches.

16. Place a minimum depth of 600 mm of lightly compacted backfill over the conduit
before crossing it with construction equipment. Anchor the riser in place by
concrete or other satisfactory means to prevent flotation. In no case should the
conduit be installed by cutting a trench through the dam after the
embankment is completed.

17. Attach anti-floatation weights, anti-vortex device and trash guard to riser and as
required refer to specifications shown on the approved plan.

Emergency spillway: 18. Install the emergency spillway in undisturbed soil whenever possible. The
achievement of planned elevations, grades, design width, and entrance and exit
channel slopes are critical to the successful operation of the emergency spillway.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
Basin inflow: 19. Discharge water into the basin in a manner that will not cause soil erosion. Use
diversions with outlet protection to divert sediment-laden water to the upper
end of the pool area to improve basin trapping efficiency.

Sediment settling
pool area: 20. Place a post or stake to indicate clearly the depth at which accumulated
sediment must be removed. The top of the stake must indicate the elevation of
the top of the sediment storage volume. Use at least a 100 mm post firmly set in
the basin floor. Refer to the plan for the top elevation of the post.

Erosion control: 21. The sediment basin should be constructed in a way that minimises the total
disturbed area. divert surface water away from bare areas. Complete the
embankment before the area is cleared. Stabilise the emergency spillway,
embankment and all other disturbed areas above the crest of the emergency
spillway immediately after construction.

Safety aspects: 22. Sediment basins may attract children and can be dangerous. Avoid steep,
smooth internal slopes. Appropriately fence basins and post warning signs if
unsupervised public access is likely and public safety is at risk.

23. If public safety is a concern, and if the basin banks are steeper than 3(h):1(v),
then at least one bank should be turfed a width of at least two (2) metres from
top of bank to the toe of bank to allow ease of exit during wet weather.

Maintenance 1. Inspect the sediment basin during the following periods:

(i) during construction: to determine whether machinery, falling trees, or

construction activity has damaged any components of the sediment basin.
If damage has occurred, repair it.

(ii) after each runoff event: to ensure that runoff into the basin has caused
damage or sediment has accumulated to a level where it must be removed.
If damage has occurred, make the necessary repairs. If necessary, remove
the accumulated sediment and restore the original storage volume.

2. Clean out accumulated sediment when it reaches the top of the indicator post.
Place sediment in a disposal area or, if appropriate, mix with dry soil on the site.

3. Do not dispose of sediment in a manner that will create an erosion hazard.

4. Check all pipe connections for leaks, and repair as necessary.

48
 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance
5. Check fill material in the dam for excessive settlement, slumping of the slopes or
piping between the conduit and the embankment; make all necessary repairs.

6. Remove all trash and other debris from the basin and riser.

Removal 1. When grading and construction in the drainage area above the sediment basin is
completed and the disturbed areas are adequately stabilised, the sediment basin
must be removed or otherwise converted to a permanent pond, wetland,
stormwater detention or treatment structure. In either case sediment should be
cleared and properly disposed of and the basin area stabilised.

2. Once the area that formed the basin is stabilised to the point where erosion is
restrained, the embankment and outlet structures can be removed and properly
disposed.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

10. References
1 Barnes, D., Bliss, P.J., Gould, B.W. and Vallentine, H.R. (1981). Water and
Wastewater Engineering Systems. Pitman, Great Britain.

2 Emerson, W.W. (1967). A classification of soil aggregates based on their coherence

in water. Australian Journal of Soil Resources, 5: 47-57.

3 Freeman, G. and Howells, L. (1995). Saline Flocculation in Stormwater Quality

Management. in Proceedings of the 3rd Annual Conference on Soil and Water
Management for Urban Development, 12-15 September 1995. International
Erosion Control Association of Australasia, Sydney.

4 Goldrick, D.A., Yassini, I. and Jones, B.G. (1996). Flocculation behaviour of West
Dapto and Albion Park soils types in urban runoff treatments. in Proceedings of
the 4th Annual Conference on Soil and Water Management for Urban
Development, Sydney, 9-13 September 1996. International Erosion Control
Association of Australasia, Sydney.

5 Hunt, J.S., (1992) Urban Erosion and Sediment Control. Department of

Conservation and Land Management, Sydney. ISBN 0 7305 9876 4.

6 Institution of Engineers, Australia (Qld), (1996). Soil Erosion and Sediment Control
Engineering Guidelines for Queensland Construction Sites. The Institution of
Engineers, Australia (Queensland Division), Brisbane.

7 NSW Department of Housing, (1998). Managing Urban Stormwater Soils and

Construction. NSW Department of Housing, Sydney.

8 Ritchie, J.A. (1963). Earthwork Tunnelling and the Application of Soil Testing
Procedures. Journal of the Soil Conservation Service of NSW, 19: 111-129.

9 Soil Conservation Service of NSW, (1993). SOILOSS: A Program to Assist in the

Selection of Management Practices to Reduce Erosion. Technical Handbook No.
11 and computer program Version 5.1. Rosewell, C.J. and Edwards, K. (eds.).
Department of Conservation and Land Management (formerly Soil Conservation
Service of NSW), Sydney.

10 USDA, (1975). Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control
in Developing Areas. United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service, College Park, Maryland.

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 Sediment Basin Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance

Notes

51
 Printed on recycled paper
For more information
Brisbane City
please telephone
Council Information
Brisbane City Council
GPO Box 1434
on 3403 8888
Brisbane Qld 4001
K2001-478 www.brisbane.qld.gov.au