Erosion Control Toolbox: Preserve Existing Vegetation
Introduction
Photo Showing the Preserving of Existing Vegetation: Preserving existing vegetation involves minimizing disturbance to existing site vegetation while constructing a transportation project. Vegetation is typically preserved by including a specification that directs the Contractor to avoid disturbance of specific areas, and/or to install temporary fencing to protect the vegetation. Preserving healthy existing site vegetation is more effective at maintaining stormwater quality than removing and planting new vegetation.
When to Use This Treatment
- Use on all projects that include existing native or non-native vegetation
Benefits
- Most effective method to maintain water quality, and minimize runoff volume and velocity
Limitations
- Preservation of existing vegetation may not be possible due to the earthwork required to construct the project
Standard Specifications
- Refer to Standard Specifications, Section 14, Environmental Stewardship
- Refer to Standard Specifications, Section 16, Temporary Facilities
Details
- See Caltrans Standard Plan for Temporary Water Pollution Control Details (Temporary High-Visibility Fence)
Estimate Information
- Use BEES Code 160110 Temporary High-Visibility Fence to specify fencing to protect existing site vegetation
Guidance
- Caltrans Stormwater Quality Handbook: Project Planning and Design Guide (PPDG)
- Refer to Figure 5-1: Decision Process for Selecting Design Pollution Prevention Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Updated: November 27, 2018