Join us for an insightful presentation exploring the evolution of Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) through sustainable Best Management Practices (BMPs). Discover innovative methodologies, gain essential insights from a US Fish and Wildlife Service case study, and learn about cutting-edge advancements from BMP manufacturers dedicated to sustainability.
Sustainability fosters harmony between humans and nature. Our focus is on geotextiles—permeable fabrics for separation, filtration, reinforcement, protection, and drainage—used in road liners, fencing fabrics, geogrids, and dewatering bags. Despite advancements, outdated practices persist, such as petroleum-based tackifiers and buried washout facilities. We advocate for wildlife-friendly products, recommending natural fiber netting and biodegradable materials over harmful plastics.
We will highlight the risks of plastic netting and reinforced silt fences, promoting safer alternatives like 100% biodegradable materials and proper erosion control product installation and removal. A case study will illustrate the unintended consequences of using straw wattles in road construction on wildlife. Data from Indiana and federal sources reveal the costs of deer-related crashes, emphasizing the need for non-nutritive straw alternatives.
See how BioWorm® on an Indiana Department of Transportation project bridges budget constraints with ecological priorities. Learn how sustainable BMPs lead to effective, eco-friendly SWPPP outcomes, benefiting both humans and nature.
Full Abstract: Join us for an engaging and informative presentation that delves into the evolution of Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) through the lens of sustainable Best Management Practices (BMPs). This session will uncover innovative BMP methodologies, provide essential insights through a US Fish and Wildlife Service case study, and showcase the latest technological advancements from BMP manufacturers committed to sustainability including BioWorm®..
Sustainability is pivotal for fostering conditions where both humans and nature can thrive in harmony. Our focus will be on sustainable BMPs, particularly the use of geotextiles—permeable fabrics that perform critical functions such as separation, filtration, reinforcement, protection, and drainage. Examples include road and landscape liners, fencing fabrics, geogrids, and dewatering bags, typically made from polypropylene or polyester.
Despite significant advancements, outdated practices still linger. Many current specifications continue to permit the use of petroleum-based tackifiers and the burial of washout facilities under the grade. To counter these outdated practices, we strongly advocate for wildlife-friendly erosion control products. We recommend the adoption of natural fiber netting and biodegradable materials over harmful plastic alternatives, which pose significant risks to wildlife and the environment.
This presentation will also address the dangers posed by plastic netting and reinforced silt fences. We will promote safer and more sustainable alternatives, such as using 100% biodegradable materials, loose weave, non-welded netting, and ensuring the proper installation and timely removal of erosion control products. These practices not only enhance environmental protection but also align with evolving regulatory standards and public expectations for sustainable development.
A critical component of our discussion will be a case study examining the use of straw wattles in road construction and their unintended consequences on wildlife. Data from Indiana and federal sources highlight the significant human and financial toll of deer-related crashes, illustrating the pressing need for non-nutritive alternatives to straw. We will present the results of a project where BioWorm®, a sustainable alternative, was used by the Indiana Department of Transportation. This case study will demonstrate how BioWorm® effectively bridges the gap between budget constraints and the necessity for sustainable practices, showcasing its practical benefits and positive environmental impact.
Our presentation aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to implement sustainable BMPs in their SWPPP, leading to more effective and environmentally-friendly outcomes. By embracing sustainable practices, we can support both human and ecological well-being, paving the way for a more harmonious and resilient future.
Join us to explore how sustainable BMPs can transform SWPPP outcomes, ensuring the protection of our natural resources while meeting the needs of modern infrastructure projects. This session is essential for professionals seeking to integrate sustainability into their stormwater management practices and contribute to a healthier planet.
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this presentation, attendees will:
Understand the Role and Benefits of Sustainable BMPs in SWPPP: Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of sustainable Best Management Practices (BMPs) and their critical functions in Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP). They will learn about the environmental and practical benefits of using geotextiles and other sustainable materials in stormwater management.
Identify and Avoid Outdated and Harmful Erosion Control Practices: Attendees will be able to recognize outdated practices that pose risks to wildlife and the environment, such as the use of petroleum-based tackifiers and plastic netting. They will learn to implement safer, more sustainable alternatives, including natural fiber netting and biodegradable materials, and understand the importance of proper installation and timely removal of erosion control products.
Evaluate and Apply Case Study Insights to Real-World Projects: Through the examination of a US Fish and Wildlife Service case study and the Indiana Department of Transportation project where BioWorm® was tested, participants will learn to evaluate the impact of erosion control products on wildlife and human safety. They will be equipped to apply these insights to their own projects, balancing budget constraints with the necessity for sustainable practices.
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