As construction season ramps up across Vermont, the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is reminding developers, contractors, and property owners of their legal obligations to safeguard water quality on and around construction sites.

“We understand that managing construction sites to protect water quality is a year-round challenge,” said DEC Commissioner Jason Batchelder. “Using measures that reduce erosion and keep soil on construction sites helps protect Vermont’s waterways and their many benefits.”

Construction activities that disturb large areas of land pose a risk to Vermont’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands by increasing sediment and stormwater runoff. To mitigate these impacts, the state requires developers to obtain a Construction Stormwater Permit under the Vermont Construction General Permit 3-9020.

This permit is mandatory for projects that either:

• Disturb 1 acre or more of land, or
• Disturb less than 1 acre, but are part of a larger common plan of development that will ultimately disturb 1 or more acres.

A key requirement for permit holders is to develop and implement an Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control (EPSC) plan. These plans must comply with the Vermont Standards and Specifications, which outline proven strategies for minimizing erosion and keeping sediment out of nearby waterways.

Among the approved erosion control measures are:

• Stone or rock check dams, which help slow down the flow of water in drainage ditches and prevent erosion;
• Filter socks, which are manufactured tubes filled with shredded material that reduce stormwater runoff across long, open slopes;
• Clearly marking construction boundaries to avoid unnecessary land disturbance;
• And prompt stabilization of exposed soil areas through mulching, seeding, or matting.

“Our department offers resources to help Vermonters understand the full suite of measures, follow the permit requirements, and protect our remarkable surface waters from streams and rivers to ponds, lakes, and wetlands,” Batchelder said. “Together, permittees help us not only reduce erosion in these special ecosystems but also cut costs to maintain important infrastructure such as road ditches and storm sewers.”

The DEC encourages developers and contractors to explore the tools available to support compliance, including the Low Risk Site Handbook, a practical guide for smaller projects, and detailed permit application instructions for larger-scale developments. The Stormwater Management Program also provides regulatory guidance and technical assistance.

These rules are part of the DEC’s broader mission to protect Vermont’s natural resources and public health. The agency continues to promote sustainable development practices that balance construction needs with environmental preservation.

Originally reported by Tim in Vermonnt Biz.