A Guide to Addressing Stormwater Management Issues through Efficient Dewatering Strategies

Stormwater management plays a vital role in ensuring environmental safety and regulatory compliance at construction sites and industrial facilities. Among the many elements of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), dewatering is a critical process. It is essential for removing groundwater during excavation to avoid project delays, and in the case of contaminated groundwater, preventing impact on the environment.

Tackling Groundwater Flooding

Groundwater flooding is a common concern for construction projects, as it can disrupt progress and increase costs. Through the use of specialized pumps and expert strategies, dewatering helps maintain groundwater levels, preventing delays and safeguarding project timelines.

Control Measures and Strategies:

• Sump pumps and wellpoint systems – These systems effectively remove excess groundwater by collecting and redirecting it away from the site, preventing pooling and reducing pressure on structures.

• Proper drainage channels – Strategically placed drainage channels help direct water flow away from critical areas, reducing the risk of site flooding. In some cases, a perimeter diversion swale may be useful to prevent the flow of stormwater into the site altogether.

• Continuous water level monitoring – Real-time monitoring allows for proactive adjustments in dewatering efforts, ensuring optimal conditions are maintained.

  
  

Maintaining Water Quality with Turbidity Control

Turbidity, or the cloudiness of water during dewatering, can affect nearby streams and rivers. Implementing filtration systems and regulatory-approved measures ensures water quality is preserved, mitigating environmental risks and maintaining compliance with environmental regulations. Turbidity can be easily seen and recognized by regulatory authorities. Increasing the turbidity of water bodies is one of the leading causes of regulatory fines.

Control Measures and Strategies:

• Sediment tanks, filter bags, or settling basins – These systems allow suspended particles to settle before water is discharged, reducing turbidity levels.

• Silt curtains – These barriers trap sediments and prevent them from contaminating nearby water bodies, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

• Polymer treatment for sediment control – Adding polymers to control devices such as settling basins or tanks helps bind fine particles together, lessening the time it takes for filtration and settling while discharging.

  
  

Stream Diversion with Care

Some construction projects require temporary stream diversions, which can impact local ecosystems. Effective dewatering methods include creating drainage channels or cofferdams to divert water flow and minimize environmental disruption while preserving natural habitats. Care should be taken using these methods to preserve the natural vegetation around the stream which can act as a filtering strip for any construction activities along the bankside.

Control Measures and Strategies:

• Temporary cofferdams and berms – These structures isolate work areas from water flow, allowing controlled diversion without excessive disruption.

• Bypass pumping systems – Pumps redirect water around the work zone, maintaining stream integrity and preventing damage to aquatic life.

  
  

Combating Seepage Erosion

Seepage erosion caused by groundwater flow can destabilize soil and slopes, posing structural risks. Advanced dewatering techniques help prevent such erosion, protecting both the construction site and nearby properties from damage.

Control Measures and Strategies:

• Grouted cut-off walls – These barriers block groundwater flow, stabilizing soil and preventing erosion in critical areas.

• Geotextile fabric reinforcement – Geotextiles provide additional stability by reinforcing soil structure and preventing movement.

• Proper grading and slope stabilization – Adjusting slopes and reinforcing them with vegetation or engineered structures reduces the likelihood of erosion.

  
  

Ensuring Reliable Dewatering Systems

Piping failures due to groundwater pressure can be a major challenge in dewatering processes. Proactive monitoring and maintenance of systems help address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring seamless operation throughout the project.

Control Measures and Strategies:

• Regular inspections and maintenance schedules – Routine checks help identify and address weak points before failures occur.

• High-quality piping and fittings – Using durable materials reduces the risk of leaks and system malfunctions.

• Redundant pump systems for reliability – Backup pumps ensure continuous operation in case of primary system failure.

  
  

Navigating Permit Requirements

Compliance with permitting regulations is crucial for any dewatering operation. Securing necessary approvals and maintaining adherence to local, state, and federal guidelines is essential for ensuring smooth project execution and avoiding regulatory setbacks. Most states or municipalities will have restrictions on the total amount of gallons that can be pumped per day.

Control Measures and Strategies:

• Pre-construction permitting review – Early assessment ensures all regulatory requirements are met before work begins.

• Compliance tracking and reporting systems – Documenting dewatering activities helps demonstrate compliance with environmental laws.

• Coordination with environmental agencies – Obtain the proper dewatering permit from the appropriate regulatory environmental agency.

  
  

Addressing Deep Well Drilling Needs

For projects requiring dewatering below the water table, such as tunneling, standard methods may be insufficient. Deep well drilling provides an effective solution, meeting the demands of even the most complex projects with precision and efficiency.

Control Measures and Strategies:

• Multi-stage deep well systems – These systems provide effective water removal from deep excavation sites, ensuring a dry work area.

• Proper pump sizing and placement – Optimizing pump placement maximizes efficiency and prevents over-extraction.

• Continuous groundwater level monitoring – Ongoing monitoring ensures that dewatering efforts remain effective and sustainable.

  
  

Partnering with Eco Permit Pros

Need help navigating dewatering compliance requirements? Reach out to the team at Eco Permit Pros today to learn how we can assist with your stormwater management needs.

Expert consultation and site assessments – Specialists provide tailored solutions based on site-specific conditions.

Customized dewatering plans – Developing site-specific strategies ensures efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Training for on-site personnel – Educating workers on best practices enhances overall project effectiveness and environmental responsibility.

Connect with a SWPPP Expert