Sediment is erosion made up of soil and other materials transported through water.

Sediment is the No. 1 pollutant by volume in Butler County streams. Sediment kills aquatic life and large amounts could contribute to flooding.

Temporary and permanent conservation practices for earthmoving activities can help prevent sediment pollution.

One of the causes of sediment pollution is rainfall eroding exposed and disturbed soils during earthmoving activities. The threat of accelerated erosion is especially great as land development continues to increase in the county.

Erosion and sedimentation control plans are reviewed by Brent Hilderbrand and Ian Harrell, county Conservation District technicians.

According to the Clean Streams Law of Pennsylvania, all earthmoving activities must have a pollution control plan available on site. Permits may be required by the Department of Environmental Protection.

The control plans consider these factors:

• The topographic features of the land.

• The types, depth slope and extent of soils.

• The proposed alteration of the land.

• The amount of runoff from the project and the upstream watershed.

• The staging of earthmoving activities.

• Temporary control measures and facilities used during earthmoving.

• Permanent control measures and facilities for long-term protection.

• A maintenance program for the control facilities, including a way to dispose of materials.

Stormwater problems are handled by local municipalities. However, in Butler County, not all municipalities have ordinances to address water runoff.

Ron Fodor is district manager of the Butler County Conservation District.