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'.F-,1- V ~i .~ 1. Remove and store topsoil 2. Protect soil from before grading compaction Topsoil is a valuable resource, yet it is typically removed or mixed with subsoil during construction, beginning a cycle of high water and chemical dependency. Heavy equipment can compact soil as deep as two feet below the surface of the soil. Compacted soils do not have adequate space for air or water. When grading the soil is unavoidable: ^ Identify areas that are to be paved as a place to store topsoil during construction. ^ Remove the topsoil (at least the top 6 inches if the topsoil is deep) before other grading and store for future use. ^ Do not store in piles larger than 6 feet high. ^ Protect from erosion. ^ Send samples for analysis. ^ Amend with 20-35% compost, depending on soil type and analysis, compost quality and plant selection. ^ Re-spread after grading and construction. Conserving topsoil can reduce the likelihood of many problems over the long run, including stormwater runoff. It can minimize fertilizer and irrigation requirements and topsoil replacement costs. ^ Before construction begins, specify a limited construction area. Install temporary fences to restrict heavy equipment, including cars. Areas that will be paved or built over are good sites for parking equipment. ^ Don't assume you need the biggest, heaviest equipment. ^ If using heavy equipment, select those with flotation tires or wide tracks to distribute the load. ^ On a longer-term basis, limit foot traffic, especially during the wet season. ^ Do not work soil when it is too wet or too dry. Till as little as possible, and only with a clearly identified goal, such as incorporating organic matter. Loosen the soil with a fork instead of turning it over whenever possible. Soil structure and the soil's ability to support the microbes that cycle nutrients and flter pollutants are protected. The soil is easier to work. - 1-~- ~^ .a~zi ^ -+~ ~ .~ - ..y• -~ + ~~ r r~! ^ Compost blankets and compost f Iter berms are less expensive when construction, maintenance, removal and disposal costs are considered. ^ Compost blankets and filter berms provide chemical, biological and physical filtration. ^ They work better than standard BMP's like silt fences or straw bales. ^ Berms offer more actual filtration than coir rolls, silt fences or straw bales. ^ Compost is annually renewable. ^ Compost is 100% recycled. ^ Compost is all organic and natural. ^ It strengthens the market for compost. ^ Aquatic wildlife can negotiate berms but not silt fences. ^ It avoids the use of petroleum based products like silt fences. ^ Construction equipment can run over it and it still works and it is easy to fix. ^ The materials can be re-used in landscaping or seeding after their use for erosion control. ^ Look for specifications from the California Integrated Waste Management Board in: Compost Use for Landscape and Environmental Enhancement Manual. SOURCE: ROD TYLER, WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COMPOST! PRESENTED AT INNOVATIONS IN EROSION CONTROL, WA. 'Topsoil has been removed and stockpiled before building construction for later re-use in the landscape. '18