Did you know we offer turbidity curtain installation?
What is A Turbidity Curtain?
Turbidity curtains, also known as silt curtains or silt barriers, are floating vinyl structures often found in bodies of water in close proximity to construction sites. In the DC Metro Region, turbidity curtains are routinely installed in the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers, the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, and many local lakes and ponds.
How Does A Turbidity Curtain Work?
A turbidity curtain contains two main elements. First, a vinyl element that creates buoyancy. This element allows the curtain to float on top of the water. Second, a fabric skirt is attached to the float and hangs below the surface of the water. Most skirts hang within 12” of the bottom and can be adapted based on the level of turbidity in the water. Together these elements create a barrier in the water that traps sediments and silt and prevents it from fully entering the body of water.
Why Are Turbidity Curtains Important?
Construction activities often stir up silt, sediments, and other pollutants into the air. These particulates can easily move over silt fences and other erosion and sediment control measures into nearby bodies of water. Turbidity curtains serve as an effective barrier to capture these pollutants and prevent them from completely entering the waterway. Turbidity curtains are also effective at capturing silt and sediments carried by stormwater runoff.
Beyond their practical importance, turbidity curtains also serve an environmental compliance purpose. The Clean Water Act and National Pollution Discharge Elimination System require enforcement of turbidity and sediment control requirements. Turbidity curtain installation is an affordable and effective method of complying with several federal, state, and local regulatory requirements.
Do You Have A Project Located Near Water?
Our experienced crews have installed fully compliant turbidity curtains throughout Maryland, Virginia, and DC.
To learn how we can help with your next project, call us today at 703-560-4040 or email estimating@mullerec.com for an estimate.
