Section C – DIKES & DIVERSIONS

March 2003
 10.0 STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS

FOR

EARTH DIKES

Definition

A temporary berm or ridge of soil, compacted, stabilized and located in such a manner as
to direct water to an approved location.

Purpose

The purpose of the earth dike is to direct runoff to a sediment trapping device, which
reduces the potential for erosion and sedimentation. Earth dikes can also be used for
diverting clean water away from disturbed areas.

Conditions Where Practice Applies

Earth dikes are often constructed across disturbed areas and around construction sites
such as parking lots and subdivisions. The dikes shall remain in place until the disturbed
areas are permanently stabilized.

Earth Dikes are constructed:

1. To divert sediment laden runoff from a disturbed area to a sediment trapping

device.

2. Across disturbed areas to shorten overland flow distances.

3. To direct sediment laden water along the base of slopes to a trapping device.

4. To divert clear water from an undisturbed area to a stabilized outlet. Runoff shall
be discharged at non-erosive rates.

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 Table 4 Design Criteria

Dike A Dike B

Drainage Area (See Table 5) (See Table 5)

Slope (of dike) (See Table 5) (See Table 5)
Dike Height (a) 18 in. 30 in.
Dike Width (b) 24 in. 36 in.
Flow Width (c) 4 ft. 6 ft.
Flow Depth in Channel (d) 12 in. 24 in.
Side Slopes 2 : l or flatter 2 : l or flatter

Note: 1. For slopes or drainage areas other than specified on Table 5, an engineering
design is required. If the slope or the earth dike or the drainage area contributing to
the dike falls between values on Table 5, round up to the next higher slope or
drainage area.

2. Stabilization of the earth dike shall be completed within seven days of installation.

Construction Specifications

1. All temporary earth dikes shall have uninterrupted positive grade to an outlet.
Earth dikes having longitudinal slopes flatter than 1% should have spot elevations
along the flow line.

2. Diverted runoff from disturbed areas shall be directed to a sediment trapping

devices.

3. Diverted runoff from undisturbed areas shall outlet directly onto an undisturbed,
stabilized area at a non-erosive velocity (≤ 4 fps for grass).

4. All trees, brush, stumps, and obstructions shall be removed and disposed of so as
not to interfere with the proper functioning of the earth dike berm and flow
channel.

5. The dike shall be excavated or shaped to line, grade and cross section as required
to meet the criteria specified herein and be free of bank projections or other
irregularities which will impede normal flow.

6. Fill shall be compacted by earth moving equipment.

7. All earth removed and not needed for construction shall be placed so that it will
not interfere with the functioning of the earth dike berm and flow channel.

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 8. Inspection and maintenance must be provided periodically and after each rain
event.

Stabilization

Stabilization of the earth dike shall be completed within 7 days of installation in

accordance with the standards and specifications for Vegetative Practices (Section J). The
earth dike flow channel shall be stabilized in accordance with Table 5, and the following
criteria:

Flow Channel Stabilization

1. Seed and cover with straw mulch.

2. Seed and cover with Erosion Control Matting or line with sod.

3. 4" - 7" stone or recycled concrete equivalent pressed into the soil in a minimum
7" layer.

The earth dike type (A or B) and lining (1, 2, or 3) shall he shown on the plans using the
standard symbol and A-1, or B-3, etc. Earth dike type and lining may vary along its
length.

In highly erodible soils, as defined by the local approval agency, refer to the next higher
slope grade for the type of stabilization needed.

Engineering Design Criteria

Engineering design may preempt the use of Table 5. The basis for the engineering design
shall be the 2-year frequency storm using SCS criteria, assuming the worst soil cover
conditions to prevail in the contributing drainage area over the life of the earth dike.
Manning's Equation shall he used to determine earth dike flow channel velocities
associated with the developed discharges. The Manning's Roughness coefficients to he
used in the equation are 0.025 for seed and mulch, 0.03 for soil stabilization matting or
sod, and for 4"- 7" stone use 0.045 for flow depths up to 1 foot (Dike A) and 0.038 for
flow depths between 1 and 2 feet (Dike B). The allowable flow channel velocities shall
be < 4 fps for Seed and Mulch, < 6 fps for Stabilization Matting or sod, and < 8 fps for
4"- 7" stone.

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 Outlet

1. Earth dikes must have an outlet that functions without causing erosion.

2. Runoff from disturbed areas shall be conveyed to a sediment trapping device such
as a sediment trap or sediment basin until the drainage area above the earth dike is
adequately stabilized.

3. The on-site location may need to be adjusted to meet field conditions.

4. Clear water diversions around disturbed area shall be discharged into an

undisturbed, stabilized area or watercourse at a non erosive velocity.

Removal

Following completion of all construction and stabilization at a site with established

vegetation, all temporary earth dikes shall be removed and the areas occupied by the
dikes shall be graded and stabilized with vegetation.

Directions for Using Table 5

1. Determine the location on the Erosion and Sediment Control plan where using the
earth dike to divert runoff is feasible. Determine the longitudinal slopes of the
proposed temporary earth dike location.

2. Determine the maximum drainage area to various design points along the
proposed earth dike alignment.

3. Enter Table 5 with the slope and drainage corresponding to the previously
determined design points along the earth dike. Using Table 5 choose an earth dike
type (A or B) and lining (1, 2, or 3) for the earth dike alignment between the
design points.

4. Review the slopes along the earth dike alignment between the design points to
insure that the slope/drainage area relationship does not exceed the chosen lining.

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 Table 5: Earth Dike Selection

*Velocity of discharge in feet/second

** For slopes steeper than 10%, refer to Standards and Specifications 16.0, 17.0, 18.0,
and 19.0

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C-10-6
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 11.0 STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS

FOR

TEMPORARY SWALES

Definition

A temporary, excavated drainage way constructed and located to convey runoff to an

approved location.

Purpose

The purpose of a temporary swale is to prevent runoff from entering disturbed areas by
intercepting and diverting it to a stabilized outlet or to intercept sediment laden water and
divert it to a sediment trapping device.

Conditions Where Practice Applies

Temporary Swales are constructed:

1. To divert sediment laden runoff from a disturbed area to a sediment trapping

device.

2. Across disturbed areas to shorten overland flow distances.

3. To direct sediment laden water along the base of slopes to a trapping device.

4. To divert clear water from an undisturbed area to a stabilized outlet. Runoff shall
be discharged at non-erosive rates.

Table 6 Temporary Swale Design Criteria

Swale A Swale B

Drainage Area (see Table 7) (see Table 8)

Slope of swale (see Table7) (see Table 8)
Bottom Width of Flow Channel 4' min. 6' min.
Depth of Flow Channel 1' min. 1' min.
Side Slopes 2 : l or flatter 2 : l or flatter

Note: 1. For slopes or drainage areas other than specified on Table 7 or 8, an

engineering design is required. If the slope of the swale or the drainage area

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 contributing to the swale falls between values on Table 7 or 8, round up to
the next higher slope or drainage area.

2. Stabilization of the swale shall be completed within seven days of

installation.

Construction Specifications

1. All temporary swales shall have uninterrupted positive grade to an outlet. Swales
having longitudinal slopes flatter than 1% should have spot elevations along the
flow line.

2. Runoff diverted from a disturbed area shall be conveyed to a sediment trapping

device.

3. Runoff diverted from an undisturbed area shall outlet directly into an undisturbed
stabilized area at a non-erosive velocity (≤ 4 fps for grass).

4. All trees, brush, stumps, obstructions, and other objectional material shall be
removed and disposed of so as not to interfere with the proper functioning of the
swale flow channel.

5. The swale shall be excavated or shaped to line, grade and cross section as
required to meet the criteria specified herein and be free of bank projections or
other irregularities which will impede normal flow.

6. Fill, if necessary, shall be compacted by earth moving equipment.

7. All earth removed and not needed on construction shall be placed so that it will
not interfere with the functioning of the swale flow channel.

8. Inspection and maintenance must be provided periodically and after each rain
event.

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 Stabilization

Stabilization of the temporary swale shall be completed within 7 days of installation in

accordance with the standards and specifications for Vegetative Practices (Section J). The
temporary swale flow channel shall be stabilized in accordance with Table 7 or 8, and the
following criteria:

Flow Channel Stabilization

1. Seed and cover with straw mulch.

2. Seed and cover with Erosion Control Matting or line with sod.

3. 4"- 7" stone or recycled concrete equivalent pressed into the soil in a minimum 7"
layer.

The temporary swale type (A or B) and lining (1, 2, or 3) shall be shown on the plans
using the standard symbol and A-l, or B-3, etc. Temporary Swale type and lining may
vary along its length.

In highly erodible soils, as defined by the local approval agency, refer to the next higher
slope grade for the type of stabilization needed.

Engineering Design Criteria

Engineering design may preempt the use of Table 7 or 8. The basis for the engineering
design shall be the 2-year frequency storm using SCS criteria, assuming the worst soil
cover conditions to prevail in the contributing drainage area over the life of the temporary
swale. Manning's Equation shall be used to determine temporary swale flow channel
velocities associated with the developed discharges. The Manning's Roughness
coefficients to be used in the equation are 0.025 for seed and mulch, 0.03 for soil
stabilization matting or sod, and for 4"- 7" stone use 0.045 for flow depths up to 1 foot.
The allowable flow channel velocities shall be < 4 fps for Seed and Mulch, < 6 fps for
Stabilization Matting or sod, and < 8 fps for 4"- 7" stone. For site conditions exceeding
those where Temporary Swale criteria apply, refer to 32.0 Lined Waterway or Outlet.

Outlet

1. Temporary swales must have an outlet that functions without causing erosion.

2. Runoff from disturbed areas shall be conveyed to a sediment trapping device such
as a sediment trap or sediment basin until the drainage area above the swale is
adequately stabilized.

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 3. The location may need to be adjusted to meet field conditions.

4. Clear water diversions around disturbed areas shall be discharged onto an

undisturbed, stabilized area or watercourse at a non erosive velocity.

Removal

Following completion of all construction and stabilization at a site with established

vegetation, all temporary earth swales shall be removed and the areas occupied by the
swales shall be graded and stabilized with vegetation.

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C-11-5
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 Table 7: Temporary Swale Selection

Swale A; D.A. ≤ 5ac.

4' Flat Bottom

*Velocity of flow in feet/second

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 Table 8: Temporary Swale Selection

Swale B; 5ac. < D.A. ≤ 10 ac.

6' Flat Bottom

*Velocity of flow in feet/second

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 12.0 STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS

FOR

DIKE/SWALE

Definition

A temporary ridge of soil excavated from an adjoining swale located along the perimeter
of the site or disturbed area.

Purpose

The purpose of a perimeter dike/swale is to prevent storm runoff from entering a

disturbed area and to prevent sediment laden storm runoff from leaving the construction
site or disturbed area.

Conditions Where Practice Applies

A perimeter dike/swale is constructed to divert flows around disturbed areas, or along

tops of slopes to prevent flows from eroding the slope, or along the base of slopes to
direct sediment laden flows to a trapping device. The perimeter dike/swale shall remain
in place until the disturbed areas are permanently stabilized.

Design Criteria

An engineering design is not required for perimeter dike/swale. The following criteria
shall be used:

Drainage area - Less than 2 acres (for drainage areas larger than 2 acres see Earth
Dike or Temporary Swale).

Height- 12 inches minimum from bottom of swale to top of dike evenly divided
between dike height and swale depth. Bottom width of dike - 3 feet minimum.
Width of swale - 3 feet minimum (see standard drawing).

Grade - Dependent upon topography, but shall have positive drainage (sufficient
grade to drain) to an adequate outlet. Maximum allowable grade not to exceed
10 percent.

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 Stabilization - The disturbed area of the dike and swale shall be stabilized within
7 days of installation, in accordance with the following:

PD/S Type Drainage Area Stabilization

PD/S - 1 1 acre or less Seed and Mulch
PD/S – 2 1-2 acres Seed and cover with erosion
control matting or line with
sod

Construction Specifications

1. All perimeter dike/swales shall have an uninterrupted positive grade to an outlet.

Spot elevations may be necessary for grades less than 1 %.

2. Runoff diverted from a disturbed area shall be conveyed to a sediment trapping

device.

3. Runoff diverted from an undisturbed area shall outlet into an undisturbed

stabilized area at a non-erosive velocity (≤4 fps for grass).

4. The swale shall be excavated or shaped to line, grade, and cross section as
required to meet the criteria specified in the standard.

5. Fill shall be compacted by earth moving equipment.

6. Stabilization of the area disturbed by the dike and swale shall be completed within
7 days and in accordance with the stabilization specifications on the plans (Ref:
42.0 Vegetative Stabilization).

7. Inspection and required maintenance shall be provided after each rain event.

Note: The maximum drainage area for this practice is 2 acres.

Outlet

1. A perimeter dike/swale shall have an outlet that functions without causing

erosion.

2. Runoff diverted from a protected or stabilized upland area shall outlet directly
onto an undisturbed stabilized area.

3. Runoff diverted from a disturbed or exposed upland area shall be conveyed to a

sediment trapping device such as a sediment trap or sediment basin.

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 4. The location of a dike/swale may need to be adjusted in the field in order to
provide positive drainage to a trapping device and to utilize the most suitable
outlet.

Removal

Following completion of all construction and stabilization at a site with established

vegetation, all temporary dike/swales shall be removed and the areas occupied by the
dike/swales shall be graded and stabilized as specified on the plans.

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C-12-4
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 13.0 STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS

FOR

TEMPORARY STORM SEWER DIVERSION

Definition

Temporary storm drain diversions redirect a storm sewer system or outfall channel to
discharge into a sediment trap or basin.

Purpose

To prevent sediment laden water conveyed by the storm sewer system from reaching a
watercourse or off-site property.

Conditions Where Practice Applies

One of the following practices or procedures shall be used to temporarily divert storm
drain systems. A special exception may be given, at the discretion of the local plan
approval agency, where site conditions make this procedure impossible.

Design Criteria

1. Construction of a sediment trap or basin below a permanent storm drain outfall:

the storm drain system outfalls into a temporary basin or trap constructed below
the permanent outfall channel.

2. In-line diversion of storm sewer at an inlet or manhole: this diversion requires

installing a pipe stub in the side of a manhole or inlet and temporarily blocking
the permanent outfall pipe from that structure. A temporary outfall ditch or
pipe may be used to convey storm flow from the stub to a sediment trap or
basin. This method may be used just above a permanent outfall or prior to
connecting into an existing storm sewer system.

3. Delay completion of the permanent storm drain outfall and temporarily divert
storm flow into a sediment basin or trap: an earth dike, swale or designed
diversion, can be used depending on the drainage area, to direct flow into a
sediment basin or trap.

4. Installation of a stormwater management basin early in the construction

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 sequence: install temporary measures to allow use as a sediment basin. Because
these structures are designed to receive storm drain outfalls, diversion should
not be necessary.

5. Inlet protection is not required if storm drain diversions have been installed and
are functioning properly.

6. A 6 foot fence around the basin is required if it is not protected by a construction

site fence.

Removal and Restoration

When the areas contributing sediment to the storm sewer system have been stabilized,
restore the system to its planned use.

The following removal and restoration procedure is recommended and must be included
in the sequence of operations for the sediment control plan:

l. Flush the storm drain system prior to removal of the trap or basin to remove any
accumulated sediment.

2. Establish a permanent stabilized outfall channel as noted on the plans.

3. For sites where an inlet was modified, plug the temporary pipe stub and open the
permanent outfall pipe.

4. Remove the sediment control devices, such as traps, basins, dikes, swales, etc.

5. Restore the area to grades shown on the plan and stabilize with vegetative
measures.

6. For basins that will be converted to stormwater management, remove the

accumulated sediment, open the low flow orifice, and seed all disturbed areas in
the basin to permanent vegetation in accordance with 42.0 Vegetative
Stabilization.

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