New design method for highway sediment basins improves water quality.
The goal of the research was to develop better ways to design and maintain sedimentation basins on construction sites to prevent pollution from stormwater runoff. The researchers created a method that considers rainfall, soil erosion, and particle removal to design effective basins. They also found that dredging sediment regularly and draining basins quickly can prevent algae growth and mosquito breeding. Adding polymer during heavy rain can improve sediment removal. Overall, the new design method and maintenance practices can help protect water quality and reduce pollutants from construction activities.