City Erosion Control Program Receives State Recognition 

The City of Greensboro Storm Water Services Division, Erosion Control Section was presented with the State of North Carolina’s Local Program of the Year Award on January 26. This Award recognized efforts by the Erosion Control Inspectors in reorganizing the Erosion Control Program since it became part of the Storm Water Services Division in November of 1997.

Over the past 14 months, Erosion Control Inspectors David Goad, Ken Cook, and Ron Fields, in conjunction with the State Department of Environment and Natural Resources Land Quality Section, have redeveloped the City’s Erosion Control Program. They have designed a New Standards of Practice to better meet the requirements of the Sedimentation Control Act of 1973 and its enforcement. The New Standards of Practice explains erosion control measures necessary for new commercial and residential developments, the inspection process and enforcement actions in case of violations. The Manual is used as an educational tool for landowners, developers, contractors and engineers who develop property in the City of Greensboro.

The Storm Water Services, Erosion Control Section is committed to enhancing and improving the water quality of our city reservoirs, lakes, streams and other water bodies. Studies have shown that the number one cause of pollution in North Carolina waterways by volume is sediment. Increased soil erosion from new construction sites is the primary and most destructive means of sediment accumulation. Through the revised Erosion Control Program, the City of Greensboro is better able to control soil erosion and sedimentation at the source before it becomes a problem.

Michael Cramer, Erosion Control Supervisor stated, "There are two main reasons we've been able to successfully improve this program. First and foremost is the commitment to water quality protection that each of our Erosion Control Inspectors maintains. Second is the tremendous support we've received from the Environmental Services Department Director and the Storm Water Services Manager as well as the entire City organization."