Be Green and Save Green by Maintaining Your Silt Fence

Silt fences work optimally when they are maintained and inspected at regular intervals during usage. Regular maintenance saves money and helps ensure that the fence is intact and working to effectively control silt and sediment.

Use the following tips to get the most out of your silt fence: 

• Look for gaps and tears along the fence. If any are found, replace and/or repair the fabric to ensure the fence remains in good working condition.
• Check the fence for straining due to increased sediment accumulation. You will want to remove sediment from those areas. It is particularly important to check the fence after each rainfall as increased sediment and other materials tend to accumulate during storms.  
• Once sediment level reaches one quarter to one third the height of the fence, it should be removed. Additionally, sediment must be removed when the silt fence itself is removed after the job.