Better BMPs: Scheduling
BMP: Best Management Practice
SS-1: Soil Stabilization-Scheduling
What is it?
"Scheduling" is probably exactly what you think it is—the act of creating a plan that outlines how much time you have for certain actions or goals. This Best Management Practice impacts basically every element of your project, from construction activities to final stabilization.
Scheduling is all about doing the right things at the right time. It's the "when" component of your project.
Why it matters:
Caltrans considers "developing a schedule and planning the project [to be] the very first steps in an effective stormwater program." The idea is that you schedule your project in a way that plans for seasonal trends like weather patterns, subcontractor and equipment availability, and more.
"The purpose [of scheduling] is to reduce the amount and duration of soil exposed to erosion by wind, rain, runoff and vehicle tracking, and to perform the construction activities and control practices in accordance with the planned schedule." —Caltrans Construction Site BMP Manual
Creating a schedule for your project isn't just a great way to make sure your project stays on track. It's one of the easiest tools you can use to prevent stormwater pollution.
How to use it effectively:
Refer to the weather when building your schedule. We know how unpredictable it can be, but try to keep seasonal weather patterns in the back of your mind at the very least. Check the forecast on a weekly basis, and adjust your work accordingly. Watch closely for predictions for rain, since that's probably what will affect your project the most.
If you've recruited Tully Group to join your team, we'll notify you when rain is coming, and what you need to do to prepare.
Here's some guidelines for effectively utilizing Scheduling...
Avoid excavating or opening up the ground right before a rain event
Stormwater picks up loose soil much easier than compact soil
Soil & sediment is considered the number one source of stormwater pollution; try not to make it easier for it to get in our waterways
Build time into your schedule to address corrective actions and REAPs
Nothing is worse than a storm sneaking up on you when your site is not properly buttoned up for rain
Schedule hydroseeding and similar hydraulic mulch services in early Fall
Beat the pre-Winter stabilization rush; these guys book up real quick
Get it done while it's not too hot & before the rain comes; vegetation may not grow in these conditions, which could make your erosion control less effective
Pay attention to wind conditions too (not just rain)
If you haven't stabilized your soil, and it's going to be a windy day, make sure you've got a water truck lined up for dust control
Prevent Stormwater Pollution at its Source | Pursue Better BMPs
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