When the land is disturbed at construction sites the soil erosion rate accelerates dramatically. The major problem associated with erosion at a construction site is the movement of soil from the site and the impact of the soil on water quality in streams and rivers and wildlife habitat. This fact sheet describes the North Carolina regulations and practices that address sediment control for construction activities.
Erosion begins when water or wind detaches soil and rock particles from the land s surface.
After detachment, soil particles are transported by air or water movement. Factors affecting erosion rates include climate, soil type, slope length, slope steepness, and vegetative cover. Anytime the land is disturbed the potential for soil erosion increases. Eroded soil particles carried by water often move into streams where sedimentation and suspended solids can lead to a number of problems. Stream impacts can be reduced by first preventing soil erosion and then by preventing the detached soil particles from leaving the site.