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STORMWATER
MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM DESIGN &

A Refresher for Industry Professionals –

By Ed Etefia, P.E., M.P.A., Principal
Nitec International, Atlanta, Georgia 1
 I. Introduction

• Urbanization (includes transportation activities) generally

reduces surface perviousness and loosens soils.

• This can result in increased flooding, soil erosion,

sedimentation, stream bank erosion and channel enlargement,
and pollution of surface and ground waters.

• Thus it is important that storm water management be properly

designed for effectiveness and approval by regulatory
agencies.

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Introduction

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Hydrology: The science that deals with the occurrence and
behavior of water in the atmosphere, on the ground and
underground.

The Hydrologic Cycle

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5
Objective I
*Understand the characteristics of precipitation that would be of interest
in predicting surface runoff.

Precipitation: Water falling from the atmosphere to the earth in the form
of rain, snow, hail or sleet.

Precipitation Intensity: The rate at which the precipitation is falling. It is

generally measured in in/hr.

Design Storm: *Return frequency -- an “x” year storm.

Better to understand it as a probability of occurrence.
i.e. %Probability=1/Tx100, where T=time or duration.

Duration: The time between the onset and the end of precipitation.
Designers typically use a 24-hr duration, but any duration can be used.

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Time Distribution: The manner in which the depth of rainfall varies in
time. *SCS (NRCS) synthetic rainfall distributions
are the most common. *Type I, Ia, II and III.
*6-hour distributions. *Specially developed
distributions.

RAINFALL DISTRIBUTIONS ACROSS THE U.S.

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 Elements of Hydraulics (Cont’d)
Objective II

*Define potential “losses” with the watershed.

*Understand watershed characteristics that would be of interest
when predicting surface runoff.

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Hydrologic Soil Groups
A group of soils having the same runoff potential under similar storm and
cover conditions.

Properties that influence the soil groups:

-depth to a seasonably high water table.
-intake rate.
-permeability after prolonged wetting.
-depth to a very slowly permeable layer.

Based on these properties, soils are classified into the following

four(4) main groups ranked from low to high runoff potential:
A,B,C, or D.

Dual-ranked hydrologic groups, A/D, B/D, and C/D:

-Only soils rated D in their natural condition are assigned to dual classes.
-The first letter applies to the drained condition.
-The second to the undrained condition.
-These are generally wet soils that can be adequately drained.

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Characteristics of Hydrologic Soil Group A

*Low runoff potential; High infiltration when thoroughly wetted.

*Deep, well-drained to excessively drained.
*Sands or gravels.
*High rate of water transmission (>0.3 in/hr).

Characteristics of Hydrologic Soil Group B

*Moderate infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted.

*Moderately deep to deep, and moderately well to well drained soils.
*Moderately fine to moderately coarse textures.
*Moderate rate of water transmission (0.15 – 0.3 in/hr)

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Characteristics of Hydrologic Soil Group C

*Slow infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted.

*Soils with a layer that impedes downward movement of water.
*Soils with moderately fine to fine texture.
*Slow rate of water transmission (0.05 – 0.15 in/hr).

Characteristics of Hydrologic Soil Group D

*High runoff potential, very slow infiltration rates.

*Clay soils with a high swelling potential, permanent high water table, clay
pan or clay layer at or near the surface, and shallow soils over nearly
impervious material.
*Very slow rate of water transmission (<0.05 in/hr).

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Antecedent Runoff Condition (ARC):
•The degree of wetness of a watershed at the beginning of a storm.
Previously known as Antecedent Moisture Condition (AMC).
•ARC I – dry
•ARC II – average
•ARC III – wet

•Antecedent Runoff Condition Table

•Total 5-day Antecedent Rainfall Depth

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Runoff Curve Number (RCN)

*Hydrologic soil-cover complex = Runoff Curve Number

*Hydrologic soil-cover complex is a combination of :

-hydrologic soil group (soil survey)
-cover type
-hydrologic condition (good or poor)

NRCS(Natural Resource Conservation Service) Runoff Curve Number

*RCN table assumes ARC II

*Weighted runoff curve number

-Accommodates different land uses or hydrologic soils group in the same
watershed

*Urban composite curve number

-Curve number(s) based on general assumptions, specially created for
“urban” and “residential” districts.

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Urban Composite Runoff Curve Numbers Explained

*Urban runoff curve numbers were developed based on several

assumptions:
-”Urban Districts” and “Residential Districts” are based on some percent
impervious assumption.
_Portions of the areas that are pervious are considered “open space in
good condition”.
-Impervious areas are assumed directly connected to the drainage system.

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 Elements of Hydraulics
Runoff Curve Numbers Table

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Runoff Curve Numbers Table

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Objective III

*Understand and evaluate common methods for predicting:

*surface runoff

*runoff volume

*peak discharge

Surface Runoff ……
Total rainfall minus interception, infiltration, surface storage and
evaporation, which moves across a ground surface to a stream or
depression. Expressed as a depth in inches.

Runoff Volume …….

Total volume of runoff from the watershed for the design storm. Generally
expressed in ac-in/hr or cfs, and is simply the surface runoff multiplied by
the area of the watershed.

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Peak Discharge..…..

A volume of runoff per unit of time computed for the design storm.
Expressed in cubic feet per second (cfs).

In order to move from surface runoff in inches to a peak discharge rate in

cfs, we need to introduce a time dependent factor. The two methods under
consideration utilize time of concentration,Tc.

Prediction of Peak Discharge……..

Two of the most common methods used predicting peak discharge for the
design of Best Management Practices (BMPs):

*Rational Method

*Simplified NRCS Method (TR55)

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Time of Concentration…….

The time it takes a drop of water to travel from the hydraulically most
distant point in a watershed to the design point.

*Flow path is broken down into travel times for portions of the entire
distance. It may have all or some of the following flow types:
-Sheet or overland
-Shallow concentrated *Tc=Summation of Tts
-Open channel or pipe

Rational Method Tc
Rational Method (Max. L = 300’)
Use FAA’s Overland Flow Nomograph

Tt= 1.8(1.1 – C)L(power5) /S(power.333) where C= Rational land use

coefficient L=Length of flow
S=Slope of Flow Path

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Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA’s) Overland Flow Nomograph

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Rational Method Tc (Cont’d):

Open channel or pipe flow

*Compute Velocity ----- V = 1.49/n*Rh(power2/3)*sq. root of s,

-Manning’s Equation where Rh = hydraulic radius in ft
s = slope of flow path in ft/ft
n = Manning’s roughness coefficient for open channel
flow

V = Velocity in fps

*Compute Tavel Time, Tt ------ Tt = L (Length)/V(Velocity)

Tc = sum of travel times for all flow segments in the channel or pipe

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NRCS Method Tc:

NRCS Method (max L=100’)

*Manning-Kinematic solution (II & III)

Tt = 0.007(nL)(power 0.8)/P2(power .5) x s(power .4)

n=Manning’s roughness coefficient

L=Length of flow
P2=2-year, 24-hr precipitation
s=slope of flow path

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NRCS Method Tc (Cont’d):

Shallow Concentrated Flow

*Compute velocity, then compute travel time

*Unpaved(TR55-USDA NRCS)
V = 16.13(s)(power .5) n=.05, Rh=.4

*Paved (TR55-USDA NRCS)

V = 20.33(s)(power .5) n=.025, Rh=.2

*Compute Travel Time

Tt = L/V

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NRCS Method Tc (Cont’d):

Open channel or pipe flow

*Compute Velocity- V=1.49/n x Rh(power 2/3) x s(power ½ or sq. root)

-Manning’s Equation

*Compute Travel Time Tt=L/V

Rational Method:

*Q = CiA Q=Peak Flow (cfs), C=Runoff Coefficient, i=Rainfall intensity

with due consideration for tc, time of concentration or duration

-Intensity is determined from an Intensity Duration Frequency (IDF) curve.

Storm duration is set equal to the computed time of concentration.

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Origins of the Rational Method

*This method derived its name from the fact that the units had been
“rationalized”.

1 cfs = 1.008 ac-in/hr

*Rainfall intensity for a duration = i

*Maximum drainage area = 50 acres

-Often used for drainage areas of 10 acres or less.

*Does not perform valley or reservoir routing.

*More accurate as impervious area increases.

*Original coefficient is for design storms with a return frequency of 10

years or less.

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Modified Rational Method

Q = CCfiA

Recurrence Interval Cf

10 years or less 1.0

25 years 1.1

50 years 1.2

100 years 1.25

**Product of Cf x C shall not exceed 1**

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The Rational Equation

*Intensity is determined for a storm of duration equal to the time of

concentration.

*Obtain or develop an Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) curve.

IDF Curve Development

*Use TP40 and HYDRO 35 to obtain initial precipitation values.

*Knowing the duration and precipitation, determine the intensity.
*Fit the data to the equation

i = a/(t+b)power n; i= avg. rainfall intensity(in/hr),

t= storm duration(hr), a,b,n=constants dependent
on the units employed and the return frequency of
the storm.

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Simplified NRCS Method

P=Precipitation (inches)

Q=Direct Runoff (inches)

Precipitation-Losses

*Interception
*Infiltration
*Surface Storage
*Evaporation

Qp = Peak Flow
-The maximum or peak rate of runoff from a given watershed for the
chosen design storm.

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Simplified NRCS Method
AKA Graphical TR55 Method

*One main stream, single subarea watershed.

*Does not perform valley or reservoir routing; cannot add
hydrographs.
*Ponds and swamps cannot be in the main flow path.
*0.1<Tc<10 hours.
*40<RCN<98.

*Knowing the precipitation, P, (inches) for the design storm and the
RCN, surface runoff Q (inches) can be computed as follows:

Q = (P-.2S)Power 2/P+.8S, where S = 1000/RCN -10

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ESTIMMATING STORMWATER RUNOFF
•A Basic First Step in Stormwater Management system
and Erosion Control Plan Design.

•To Estimate Runoff, the Amount of Rainfall

Contributing to the Runoff of a Given Area Must Be
Known.

•The Designer Must Estimate the Runoff From Pre-

Development and Post-Development Conditions , and
Design a Stormwater Management System to Retain the
Excess Quantity and Treat the Reduced Quality of the
Water.

•Regulations Will Dictate a Minimum “Design Storm”

for StormWater Calculations.

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 Elements of Hydraulics
DESIGN STORMS

*A Theoretical Storm Event Based on Rainfall Intensities

Associated with Occurrence Frequency and a Set Duration.

*e.g. – A 50-Year – 24 Hour Storm Event Occurs Every 50 Years

and Lasts for 24 Hours.

*i.e. A Stormwater Management System Designed for Such A

Storm Would Theoretically Fail Every 50 Years.

*The Amount of Rainfall for a Design Storm is Based on the

Historical Rain Data of the Subject Geographical Location.

*For a 100-Year Period, the Probability of Any Particular Design

Storm Occurring In Any Given Year = Storm Frequency/100.

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 Elements
DESIGN STORMS
of Hydraulics
TABLE OF AVERAGE RAINFALL AMOUNTS FOR VARIOUS DESIGN
STORMS IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA

Design Storm Average Rainfall Probability

2 Year - 24 Hour 4.5” 50%
5 Year - 24 Hour 6.5” 20%
10 Year - 24 Hour 7.5” 10%
25 Year - 24 Hour 8.5” 4%
50 Year – 24 Hour 9.5” 2%
100 Year – 24 Hour 10.5” 1%

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HYDROGRAPHS
*A Graph Displaying Some Property of Water Flow,
Such As Stage (i.e. Water Level), Discharge,
Velocity, etc., versus Time.

*For Displaying Watershed Runoff Characteristics,

the Hydrograph is One of Discharge (CFS) versus
Time (Hours).

*It Represents Watershed Runoff at a Certain Point

in the Flow and Includes Only the Rainfall Upstream
of the Pint in Question.

*Any Rainfall Downstream of this Point is not

Represented.

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 Elements of Hydraulics
HYDROGRAPHS

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 Elements of Hydraulics
HYDROGRAPHS

*As shown in Fig. 3.3a, there are three basic parts to the
hydrograph: (1) the rising limb or concentration curve,
(2) the crest segment, and (3) the recession curve or falling
limb.

*Analytical properties of the hydrograph: (1) Lag time (L): the

time interval from the center of mass of rainfall excess to the
peak of the hydrograph; (2) Time to peak (Tp): the time
interval from the start of rainfall excess (direct runoff) to the
peak of the hydrograph; (3) Time of concentration (Tc): the
time interval from the end of the rainfall excess to the point
on the falling limb of the hydrograph where the recession
curve begins (the point of inflection).

Tc = Travel time between the furthest point on the watershed

to the point represented by the hydrograph or point of
interest.

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HYDROGRAPHS

*In Fig. 3.3a, the rectangle above the hydrograph is called the
hyetograph. It consists of the losses (upper shaded portion) due
to infiltration, evaporation, etc. and the rainfall excess (lower white
portion) which is the runoff that produces the hydrograph.

*D is the duration of the excess rainfall.

*Volume of rainfall excess = Rainfall intensity (in/hr) x duration x

the watershed area.

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HYDROGRAPHS

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HYDROGRAPHS

*An excellent way to compare pre-development versus

post-development conditions.

*Fig. 3.3b demonstrates that peak runoff for post-

development is considerably greater that that of pre-
development.

*Also, the time of concentration for post-development is

shorter; therefore, the runoff is traveling at a greater
velocity which can yield increased erosion rates.

*The post-development hydrograph with peak discharge

control shows how proper stormwatermanagement can
reduce peak runoff and lengthen time of concentration.

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GENERAL PROCEDURE

*To attain water quality objectives, it is essential that the first

flush of pollutants be captured and treated.

*To ensure that the first flush is effectively captured and treated,
the easiest method to determine the stormwater treatment
volume is to multiply the project size or contributing drainage
area by the treatment volume.

SAMPLE PROBLEM 1: What is the treatment volume for a 30-

acre subdivision with a desired retention of 0.75 inches of
runoff and a detention of 1.0 inches of runoff?

SOLUTION: a. Retention Treatment

(30 acres)(0.75 inches runoff) = 1.875ac-ft
12 in/ft
b. Detention Treatment
(30 acres)(1.0 inches runoff) =2.5 ac-ft
12 in/ft

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THE RATIONAL METHOD

*The Rational Formula: most commonly used method of

determining peak discharges from small drainage areas.

*It is traditionally used to size storm sewers, channels and

other stormwater structures which handle runoff from drainage
areas less than 200 acres.

*It is expressed as: Q = (C) (i) (A)

where:

Q = peak rate of runoff in cubic feet per second (cfs)

C= runoff coefficient, a dimensionless unit
I = average rainfall intensity in inches per hour (in/hr)
A = the watershed area in acres (ac.)

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CONSIDERATIONS
*Water travels through a watershed as sheet flow, shallow
concentrated flow, open channel flow or some combination of
these.

*The type of flow that occurs is a function of the conveyance

system.

*Travel time is the ratio of flow length to flow velocity:

Tt= L (Eq. 3-4)

3600V
where:

Tt = travel time (hr)

L = flow length (ft)
V = average velocity (ft/s)
3600 = conversion factor from seconds to hours

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CONSIDERATIONS

*Time of concentration is the sum of Tt values for the

various consecutive flow segments:

Tc = Tt1 + Tt2 + Tt3 + … +Ttm

where:

Tc = time of concentration (hr)

m = number of flow segments

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CONSIDERATIONS

*For sheet flow < 300 feet, use Manning’s kinematic solution to
compute Tt:

(Eq. 3-4) Tt = 0.007(nL)*power0.8

(P2)*power0.5 x S*power0.4

where:

Tt = travel time (hr)

n = Manning’s roughness coefficient (Table 3-2)
L = flow length (ft)
P2 = 2 year, 24 –hour rainfall (in)
S = slope of hydraulic grade line (ft/ft)

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 Hydraulic Applications
CONSIDERATIONS
ROUGHNESS COEFFICIENTS (MANNING’S n) FOR SHEET FLOW
________________________________________________________
SURFACE DESCRIPTION n
________________________________________________________
Smooth surfaces
(concrete, asphalt, gravel or bare soil ………………….. 0.011
Fallow (no residue) ………………………………………….. 0.05
Cultivated soils:
Residue cover < 20% ……………………………………… 0.06
Residue cover > 20% ……………………………………… 0.17
Grass:
Short grass prairie …………………………………………. 0.15
Dense grasses ……………………………………………… 0.24
Bermudagrass………………………………………………. 0.41
Range (natural) ……………………………………………….. 0.13
Woods:
Light underbrush ………………………………………….. 0.40
Dense underbrush ………………………………………… 0.80
TABLE 3-2

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VI. Overview of Stormwater Management
Storm water management includes non-structural
and structural measures such as:

3. Erosion control to reduce erosion

and sediment transport.

7. Storm water detention and retention systems to

reduce peak runoff rates and improve water
quality.

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Overview of Stormwater Management
(Cont’d)
3. Sedimentation and filtration systems to
remove debris, suspended solids, and insoluble pollutants.

7. Vegetative buffers to reduce pollutant transport.

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Overview of Stormwater Management
(Cont’d)
Impact(s) of Stormwater Disposal

It is now widely recognized that the practice of

providing for rapid disposal of
stormwaterrunoff from developing areas has
increased the frequency of flooding in
downstream areas.

Additionally, water quality problems in surface

waters often result from nonpoint and point
sources of pollution.

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Overview of Stormwater Management
(Cont’d)
Impact(s) of Stormwater Disposal(Cont’d)

Water quality goals for surface waters cannot

be solely attained by separation of combined
sewers or tertiary treatment of sewage, but
also by requiring mitigation of pollution from
nonpoint sources.

Highway construction, operation and

maintenance contribute a variety of pollutants
to surface and ground water.

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Overview
Impact(s) of
of Stormwater Management
Stormwater Disposal (Cont’d)
Solids, nutrients, heavy metals, oil and
grease, pesticides, and bacteria all can be
associated with highway runoff.

While the impacts of highway runoff pollution

on receiving waters may be insignificant, it is
widely recognized that responsible agencies
may be required by state and federal
regulations to apply the BMP available to
minimize pollutant loads entering a water
body.

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An Overview of Stormwater Management
(Cont’d)
The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
One major requirement of the regulations is
the preparation of an Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS). The EIS is designed to
quantify potential pollutants emanating from
the operation and maintenance of highway
and other transportation facilities, so that you
can make sound judgments as to the overall
usefulness of the facility.

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An Overview of Stormwater Management

The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

(Cont’d)
Most state DOTs require detailed procedures and
recommended BMPs to be included in a
StormwaterPollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).

Although the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) Permit requirements currently require
SWPPPs for projects disturbing in excess of 5 acres, it is
highly recommended that erosion control specifications
and appropriate BMPS be utilized as much as possible
for all construction projects.

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VII. Erosion & Sediment Control
Considerations
The Erosion Process
What is erosion? Erosion is caused by rainfall, which
displaces soil particles on inadequately protected
areas, and water running over soil, carrying some soil
particles away in the process.

Soil particle removal rate: proportional to the intensity

and duration of the rainfall and to the volume and
characteristics of the water flow and soil properties.

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 Erosion and Sediment Control
Considerations
Deposition of water-borne sediment occurs when the
velocity decreases and the transport capacity of the
flowing water becomes insufficient to carry all of its
sediment load.

Soil Erosion: either natural or accelerated.

Natural Erosion(ranges from slow to rapid,

depending on various factors): A geological process
over which humans have little or no control. e.g.
where humans have disturbed land by construction,
there may be a sudden, rapid increase in erosion rate,
thus creating accelerated erosion.

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Erosion Control Considerations (Cont’d)

Accelerated Erosion: Erosion that should be

controlled during construction and after construction
is completed.

Tip #1: Avoid locations with high erosion potential.

In areas of significant natural erosion and
accelerated erosion, document the quantity
of sediment that reaches a stream before
any construction begins in a descriptive or
qualitative manner.
Remember: Damage that can occur on
projects is not limited to the
construction site.

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Erosion Control Considerations (Cont’d)
Mitigation of Erosion Potential
Measures for Reducing Erosion Potential:
*Protection at culvert outlets.

•Dikes, berms, and other protective devices.

•Protective ground covers and plantings.

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 Erosion Control Considerations
Measures for Mitigation of Erosion Control Potential
*Flat side slopes, rounded and blended with natural terrain.
*Drainage channels designed with consideration for width, depth,
slopes, alignment, and protective treatment.

Tip #2: Erosion: *Natural process often accelerated by human

activities.
*Technical competency in assessing the
severity of erosion problems, and in planning
and designing preventive and corrective
measures is key to attaining environmentally-
efficient and cost-effective methods of erosion
control.
*Preventive measures taken during
construction are more effective and
economical than corrective measures.

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Erosion Control Considerations (Cont’d)
Erosion Control vs Sediment Control

Erosion Control: involves the prevention of soil movement.

Sediment Control: interception of sediment-laden runoff and
separation of soil particles already in motion
or suspension.

Tip #3: *Erosion control at the source is the first consideration,

with sediment control the backup or last resort.
*To adequately address erosion and sediment control problem,
you must understand erosion and sedimentation processes,
develop erosion and sediment control plans, schedule
construction operations for erosion and sediment control,
construct specific erosion and sediment control measures,
and monitor and maintain water quality.

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 VIII. Stream Buffer Requirements
Overview
What is State Water?
According to GA E&SC Act of 1975,
“State Waters” includes any and all rivers,
streams, creeks, branches, lakes, reservoirs, ponds, drainage systems,
springs, wells, and other bodies of surface or subsurface water, natural or
artificial, lying within or forming a part of the boundaries of the State,
which are not entirely confined and retained completely upon the property
of a single individual, partnership, or corporation.

Who Determines State Waters?

•In areas where there is a certified local issuing authority, State Waters
determinations are made by the issuing authority.
•In areas where there is no certified issuing authority, the Environmental
Protection Division (EPD) confirms State Waters and buffer delineations
as shown on Erosion, Sediment & Pollution Control Plan (ES&PCP).

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Stream Buffer Requirements(Cont’d)
Determination of State Waters:
*Look for a well-defined channel and a point of “wrested” vegetation.
- vegetation wrested/removed from channel by ‘normal stream flow’.
•Walking the site to determine State Waters is highly essential.

•Other Clues for State Waters:

•Soils – Hydric soils (“soils formed under conditions of saturation, flooding,
or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic
conditions in the upper part.” (Federal Register, July 13, 1994).
•Topography – Drainage Area
•Substrate in Channel – Sandy substrate.
•Vegetation types – “Water-loving” species.

•Functions of Buffers
•Reduces storm runoff velocities
•Acts as a screen for “visual pollution”
•Reduces construction noise
•Improves aesthetics on the disturbed land
•Filters and increases infiltration of runoff
•Cools rivers and streams by providing shade

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Stream Buffer Requirements (Cont’d)
Functions of Buffers (Cont’d)
*Provides food and cover for wildlife and aquatic organisms
*Aids in flood protection
*Protects channel banks from scour and erosion

Stream Buffer Rules

*Measured horizontally from point where vegetation has been wrested by
normal stream flow or wave action to the top of creek bank.
*25 Feet – Warm Water Streams**
*50 Feet -- Trout (cold) streams**

**Local issuing authorities may require additional buffers in local

ordinance.

Coastal Areas
*Buffers for saltwater marshes and tidally-influenced streams are
measured from the marsh jurisdictional line, as determined by the Coastal
Resources Division of the GA DNR, pursuant to the Coastal Marshland
Protection Act.

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Stream Buffer Requirements (Cont’d)
Requirements if you absolutely have to work in the buffer
-The min. 25’ or 50’ (trout streams) undisturbed State Waters buffer shall
be maintained, except where the Director of EPD determines to allow a
variance that is at least as protective of natural resources and the
environment.
-Variances for the State minimum buffer may only be issued by the EPD,
not by local issuing authorities.
-Check with Federal regulators to ensure compliance with Federal
regulations (US Army Corps of Engineers).

Activities Exempt from Stream Buffer Variance Requirements:

*Water line, sewer line crossings within 25 of the perpendicular
*Drainage structures on warm water streams
*Roadway drainage structures on warm and trout water streams

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Stream Buffer Requirements (Cont’d)
Drainage Structure: A device composed of virtually non-erodible material
such as concrete, steel, plastic or other such material that conveys water
from one place to another by intercepting the flow and carrying it to a point of
release for storm water management.
Roadway Drainage Structure: A device composed of virtually non-erodible
material such as concrete, steel, plastic or other such material (e.g. bridge,
culvert or ditch) that conveys water under a roadway.

General Variance
*Piping of small trout streams (average annual flow less than or equal to 25
gals/minute.
*Not to exceed 200 linear feet.
*May not be combined with other variances.
*Two(2) acceptable methods:
-USGS unit area runoff map used to determine acreage that will produce
average annual flow of 25gpm or less; or
-Hydrologic analysis certified by a Registered Professional Engineer or
Geologist.
Note: Any project with more than 200 feet of piping will require a variance.

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Stream Buffer Requirements (Cont’d)
Buffer Variance Criteria:
1. The project involves construction of :
*one single family home for residential use by the property owner,
and
*there is no opportunity to develop under any reasonable design
configuration

9. The project involves the construction or repair of a structure

which, by its nature, must be located within the buffer.
*dams
*public water supply intake structures
* wastewater discharges
*docks and boat launches
*stabilization areas for public access to water

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Stream Buffer Requirements (Cont’d)
Buffer Variance Criteria (Cont’d)

3. The project will result in restoration or enhancement

*to improve water quality and/or aquatic habitat quality;

4. Buffer intrusion is necessary to provide access to the property

5. The intrusion is for gravity-flow sewer lines that cannot be reasonably

placed outside the buffer, and stream crossing and vegetative
disturbance are minimized; or

6. Crossing for utility lines, including but not limited to:

*gas
*liquid
*power
*telephone or other pipelines
provided that the number of crossings and the amount of vegetative
disturbances are minimized

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Stream Buffer Requirements (Cont’d)
Buffer Variance Criteria (Cont’d)
7. Recreational foot trails and viewing areas, providing that impacts to
the buffer are minimal.
8. Project will:
-require a Wetland Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers (COE) for impacts to jurisdictional wetlands, and
-the COE has approved a mitigation plan and
-implementation of the plan is a 404 permit condition.
-Applicable to non-trout waters only

9. Project includes a plan that shows the completed project will

maintain or improve water quality downstream of the project.
-Applicable to non-trout waters only

10. Project with buffer disturbance is located:

*in or upstream and within 10 linear miles of an impaired stream
segment, and *includes a plan that shows that the completed project
will maintain or improve water quality in the listed segment.
-Only applicable to non-trout waters only.

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Stream Buffer Requirements (Cont’d)
Stream Buffer Variance Application Process
*Stream buffer variance application and checklist of required information
for the State of Georgia can be found at www.dnr.state.ga.us/environ.
Click on “EPD Forms”.
*Within 60 days of receipt of a COMPLETE buffer variance application,
the Division will either:
-Provide written comments to the applicant, or
-Propose to issue a variance
*Public notice required.
*The local issuing authority may not issue a land disturbing permit for a
project proposing to encroach into the State stream buffer until an EPD
variance has been granted.
*If a variance is approved, the local issuing authority is responsible for
inspection and enforcement for compliance.

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Stream Buffer Requirements(Summary)
Summary

•Walk sites and gather all necessary information to determine State Waters.
•Buffers on state waters are valuable in protecting and conserving land and
water resources.
•Some activities are exempt from stream buffer requirements
•-i.e. drainage structures, sewer crossings, etc.
•All non-exempt activities within a state water buffer require an EPD stream
buffer variance
-Temporary
-Permanent

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 IX. Geology & Soils
Overview
Ground conditions in the field are resultant from geologic processes
operating on and within the earth. A project designer must, therefore,
have good knowledge of the project area’s geology to expose potential
challenges and anticipate geologic hazards (subsidence, landslides,
earthquakes, etc) and erosion problems.
Soil:The unconsolidated mineral or organic material on the immediate
surface of the earth that serves as a natural medium for the growth of
plants.

Soil Formation:
-Parent Material: “base” material for soil formation.
_Product of the effects of climate, topography, and living organisms
acting on parent material over a period of time.

Hydrologic Soil Group:

*Group of soils with similar runoff potential under similar storm and cover
conditions.

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 Geology & Soils (Cont’d)
Hydrologic Soil Group (Cont’d)
*Soil properties that influence runoff potential:
-depth to a seasonably high water table.
-saturated hydraulic conductivity after prolonged wetting.
-depth to a layer with a very slow water transmission rate.

Relative Sizes of Soil Particles

-Sand: 0.05 - 2.00 mm
-Silt: 0.002 – 0.05 mm
-Clay: (<0.002 mm)
Particle Sizes In Soil Texture

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 Geology & Soils (Cont’d)
Soil Formation Process Flow Chart

83
 X. Vegetative & Structural Best
Management Practices (BMPs)
Definition: Measures to mitigate stormwater
runoff quantity and quality.
Benefits: Reduced flooding potential, improved
water quality, improved urban development, and
reduced pollution from highways.
Vegetative BMPs
Key Points:
*Vegetation can reduce soil erosion.
•E&SC plans are important.
•Proper planning is required for success.
•All E&SC plans are different and site specific.
•E&SC is a system (vegetative/structural/management)
•Adequate maintenance is required.
•Vegetative Practices
•Bf – Buffer Zone
•Cs- Coastal Dune Stabilization
•Ds1 – Mulching only
•Ds2 – Temporary Seeding
•Ds3 – Permanent Seeding

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Vegetative Best Management Practices
(Cont’d)
Vegetative Practices
*Ds4 - Sodding
*Du – Dust Control
*Mb – Matting & Blankets
*Pm – Polyacrylamide
*Sb – Streambank Stabilization
*Tb – Trackifiers & Binders

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Structural Best Management Practices
(BMPs)
BMPs for Site Preparation (Prior to Construction)
*Access stabilization
-Const. Exit (50’lx20’w min.)
-Construction Road

*Stream Crossings
*Preventative Filters Construction Entrance/Exit
*Flow Diversions (Dc)
*Sediment Basins (Sd3)

Compost Filter Sock

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 Structural BMPs – Construction
BMPs for Construction
(Temporary structures)
*Channel Stabilization
*Concentrated Flow
*Cut/Fill Slopes
*Sediment Barriers

Channel Stabilization

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Structural BMPs Construction (Cont’d)
Temporary Stream Crossing (Sr)– installed across a flowing stream or
watercourse for use by construction equipment.
*Not to be used on streams with a drainage
area of greater than 1 square mile (640 acres)
*In place for less than 1 year.
*Design based on area and slope of watershed.
*Must convey 2-yr, 24-hr storm.
*Bridge or culvert crossings may be used.
*Installed perpendicular to stream.

Preventative Filters
*To protect existing ponds, lakes, small channels.
-Apply upstream of ponds and lakes.
-Apply downstream of construction.
*Rd-Rock Filter Dam
*Sd1- Silt Fence (Perimeter)
PERIMETER SILT FENCE
ROCK FILTER DAM

88
Structural BMPs – Construction (Temp.)
Stream Diversion Channel (Dc) STREAM DIVERSION CHANNEL
*Bottom width shall be a min. of 6’
or equal to the bottom width of the existing
streambed.
*Side slopes shall be no steeper than 2:1.

Sediment Basins
*To provide large sediment load control.
-Apply before site work at collection point.
-Check after storm events.
-Remove after construction or install permanent
features as required for post-construction
condition.
Sd3 –Temporary Sediment Basin.

TEMPORARY SEDIMENT BASIN

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Structural BMPs –Construction (Permanent)
Retaining Wall (Re)
Definition
•A wall constructed of concrete masonry, reinforced concrete, treated
timbers, steel pilings, gabions, stone drywall, rock riprap, etc.

•*Used to stabilize cut/fill slopes.

•Requires site-specific design.

•Permanent Down-drain Structure(Dn2)

•*A permanent structure used to safely convey surface runoff down the
face of cut/fill slopes.
•-All structures shall meet DOT standards and specs.
•-Shall safely convey the 25-yr, 24-hr. storm.
•-Outlets must be stabilized.

GABION RETAINING WALL DOWNDRAIN STYSTEM

90
Best Management Practices – Planning
Considerations
*Maintain erosion control structures, both during and after
construction.

*Detain sediment via temporary or permanent barriers, basins, etc.

*Retard runoff with planned engineering works.

*Reduce the duration and area of unprotected soil exposure.

*Select a route/site with lowest erosion potential.

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XI. Guidelines for An Effective Sediment
Control Plan
Suggested Tools

*Site Survey
*USGS Survey
*Soil Survey
*County Topographic Maps
*Soils Investigation
*Wetlands Maps
*Phase I Environmental Investigation Report
*Recorded Plats
*FEMA Flood Maps
*Erosion & Sediment Control Manual
*State Storm water Manual

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Guidelines for An Effective Sediment
Control Plan (Cont’d)
REQUIRED PRE-DESIGN SITE VISIT

APPROVED RULE –
Plan preparer must certify on the plan that a site visit by the plan preparer
(or designee) has been conducted prior to preparing the plan.

STATE WATERS

Any and all rivers, streams, creeks, branches, lakes, reservoirs, ponds,
drainage systems, springs, wells and other bodies of surface or
subsurface waters, natural or artificial, lying within or forming a part of the
boundaries of the state which are not entirely confined and retained
completely upon the property of a single individual, partnership or
corporation.

US WATERS GUIDELINE

Projects impacting more than 0.5 acres of wetlands or 300 feet of stream
will likely require an individual Department of the Army Permit.

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Guidelines for An Effective Sediment
Control Plan (Cont’d)
General Design Principles
-Stripping of vegetation, re-grading and other development activities shall be done in
such a manner that minimizes erosion.
-Development plans must conform to topography and soil type, so as to establish the
lowest practicable erosion potential.
-Cut and fill operations must be minimized, and whenever feasible, natural vegetation
shall be retained, protected and supplemented.
-Adequate provisions must be made to minimize damage from surface water to the
cut face of excavations or the sloping surfaces of fills.
-Sediment in runoff water must be trapped by the use of debris basins, sediment
basins, silt traps or similar measures until the disturbed area is stabilized.
-Disturbed soil shall be stabilized as soon as possible.
-Temporary vegetation or mulching shall be used to protect exposed critical areas
during development.
-Permanent vegetation and structural erosion control measures must be installed as
soon as practical.
-Grading equipment must cross flowing streams by means of bridges and culverts,
except when such methods are not feasible, provided however, that such crossings
are kept to a minimum.
-If required, obtain State variance, or obtain Nationwide Permit (NP) or Individual
Permit (IP).

94
 Plan Preparation Concepts
REQUIREMENTS
2. Meet requirements of the State Erosion and Sediment Control
Agency.
3. Meet requirements of the General Permit.
4. Meet Federal Regulations.
5. Meet Local Erosion and Sediment Control Enforcement Agency
Requirements.

PLAN BASICS
-Description of existing land use at project site and description of
proposed project. Include Land Lot and District Numbers for project
location.
-Name, address and phone number of developer/owner.
-Name and phone number of 24-hr local contact that is responsible for
erosion and sediment control.
-Signature and seal of qualified design professional.
-Note total and disturbed acreage of the project or phase under
construction.

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Plan Preparation Concepts (Cont’d)
PLAN BASICS (CONT’D)
-Show location of erosion and sediment control practices using uniform
coding symbols from the State Erosion Control Manual.
-Delineate 25-foot undisturbed buffers for State Waters and 50-foot
management zones along designated trout streams, clearly noting
areas of impact.
-Include soil series and their delineation.
-Describe adjacent areas (neighboring streams, lakes, residential ares,
etc) which might be impacted.
-Provide detailed construction activity schedule, with anticipated start
and completion dates for project events. Include vegetation and
mulching timeline.
-Clearly note the following in bold letters:
“Any escape of sediment from the site shall be prevented by the
installation of erosion and sediment control measures and practices
before or concurrent with land-disturbing activities.
-Provide a minimum of 67 CY/AC sediment storage. Include specific
design information and calculations for all structural measures on site,
such as temporary sediment basins, detention ponds and channels.

96
 Plan Preparation Concepts (Cont’d)
PLAN BASICS (CONTD)
-Show storm drain pipe and weir velocities, and provide appropriate
outlet protection to accommodate discharges without erosion.
-Provide vegetative plan (site-specific for appropriate time of year for
seeding and for the appropriate geographic region), noting all temporary
and permanent vegetative practices.
-Include species, planting dates and seeding, fertilizer, lime, and
mulching rates.
-Clearly note maintenance statement:
“Erosion control measures will be maintained at all times. If full
implementation of the approved plan does not provide for effective
erosion control, additional erosion and sediment control measures shall
be implemented to control or treat the sediment source.”

97
XII. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) Permit Requirements
3-PHASE CONSTRUCTION DESIGN

*Clearing Phase (Clearing and Grubbing)

*Grading Phase (Grading and Temporary Vegetation)
*Final Phase (Stormwater Management & Permanent Vegetation)

TYPICAL CLEARING PHASE ACTIVITIES

*Establish clearing limits.
*Locate state waters/wetlands.
*Establish perimeter protection.
*Install Temporary Sediment Ponds.
*Observe sensitive soil areas.
*Establish construction entrance and/or exits.
*Define special BMP requirements.

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NPDES Permit Requirements (Cont’d)
TYPICAL GRADING PHASE ACTIVITIES
*Establish diversion dikes.
*Define mulching, temporary stabilization measures.
*Define critical work zones.
*Define special BMPs/methods.
*Maintain communication with contractor/inspector.

TYPICAL FINAL PHASE ACTIVITIES

*Final vegetative measures.
*Final structural measures.
*Final stormwater systems.

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Erosion Control Plan

100
XIII. Policy Considerations –Ga Storm
Water Mgmt Manual

101
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