Resources for Homeowners

Call Cascade Utilities at 425-861-8787 to discuss how we can help you with your project.
Pond Cleanout
Removing sediment from a pond is a necessary process that is required every few years, depending on the
Why does my sediment pond need to be cleaned out?
A sediment pond is only effective when there is sufficient space available for the sediment to accumulate. If the pond is not cleaned out regularly it will not be effective at preventing the sediment from entering waterways. Sediment can contain pollutants. It may be a legal requirement in your area that sediment ponds be maintained to protect the bodies of water downstream.
How to tell if my sediment pond needs cleaning:
The easiest way to tell if a sediment pond needs cleaning is through regular visual inspections. Check to see if sediment is building up in the inlet or outlet structures. Check if there has been a noticeable change in water depth. Other indicators include: increased vegetation growth, overflowing during rainy seasons, and increase in sediment quantity downstream. Be sure to check with your local municipalities as there may be requirements regarding how frequently a pond must be cleaned out.


Solution
Temporarily divert flow. Before starting the pond cleanout, the flow of water must be diverted so the pond can be drained. This may involve installing a temporary diversion channel or doing the pond cleanout while the water not flowing. Drain Pond. A pump is used to pump the pond water out of the pond. The discharge location is selected to minimize erosion.Remove vegetation. If vegetation has established itself in the sediment pond, it is removed to prevent re-suspension of sediment during the cleanout process. Roots and debris are removed from the pond bottom.Remove sediment. Excavators and dump trucks are used to excavator and transport sediment out of the pond to a dump site. Clean outflow pipe. Before water is diverted back towards the pond, the outflow pipe of the pond is cleared of all debris and repaired (if necessary) before water is reintroduced to the pond.
If you are having this issue, give us a call so we can help you assess and discuss options.