Source control evaluations

Source Control BMPs prevent pollution of stormwater runoff by minimizing contact between runoff and pollutants, and include land use or site planning practices or devices. OWP research staff have provided assistance with multiple evaluations and uses of source control practices.

Caltrans Erosion Control BMP Studies

Erosion control BMPs are types of source controls that establish and maintain effective vegetation for short-term first growth and for long-term establishment and amend existing soils to stop and prevent continued erosion. Erosion control BMPs can also include non-vegetative products and methods. OWP assisted the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in dozens of erosion control BMP studies. Projects included literature review and laboratory and field evaluations for permanent soil stabilization techniques in Caltrans rights-of-way, including hydraulic applications; roughness techniques; vegetative cover types; and planting, establishment, and maintenance practices.

Contact: Kevin Murphy

Caltrans Erosion Control Guidance Protocols

OWP assisted the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in developing guidelines and protocols for erosion control practices, which are types of source control BMPs. Products included Caltrans Soil Stabilization for Temporary Slopes (a field guide to help Caltrans construction staff select appropriate products and techniques for soil stabilization for temporary slopes at construction sites), Caltrans Guidance for Temporary Soil Stabilization (guidance for Caltrans resident engineers in approving soil stabilization BMPs selected by the contractors), and TransPLANT (a software tool that helps Caltrans landscape architects in selecting regionally appropriate plant species for erosion control, revegetation, biofiltration, and other highway planting conditions).

Contact: Kevin Murphy

Other Caltrans Source Control Studies

OWP assisted the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in several non-erosion control studies that assess ways to prevent or minimize the contribution of litter and sediment in stormwater runoff. Studies included 1) a litter control pilot study; 2) sweeper evaluations, fine particle analysis, and abrasive assessments for the Lake Tahoe region; and 3) a de-icer reconnaissance study.

Contact: Dipen Patel