Control Welcome to the Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control homepage. Our program goal and purpose of our program is to protect the waters for the benefit of the people and wildlife of Michigan within Washtenaw County. This goal is met by preventing and controling erosion and sedimentation of soil at sites undergoing earth-work and construction projects. Our office regulates earth moving activities everywhere in Washtenaw County except Pittsfield Township, Ypsilanti Township, the City of Ann Arbor, and the City of Saline. Any pond excavations, soil movement within 500 feet of surface water, or soil movement that disturbs 1 or more acres of soil, requires a soil erosion permit.
Eroded soils can enter water bodies and channels, raising water levels and blocking culverts.
When wet, these sediments can make roadways dangerous. Other pollutants such as pesticides, herbicides and oil can become attached to eroded soils and enter water bodies along with the soil. These contaminants can make wading and swimming unhealthy. Environmental Reasons Sediment in water bodies can cover the eggs of fish and other organisms, preventing them from hatching. Excess sediment that is suspended in streams and rivers acts like sandpaper on fish and other organisms.