The Role of Check Dams in Erosion Control

Erosion is one of the most persistent challenges in stormwater management. Without proper controls, runoff can carry away valuable soil, clog drainage systems, and pollute nearby streams, rivers, and lakes. One of the most effective – and often overlooked – tools for slowing stormwater and preventing erosion is the check dam.

In this article, we’ll explore what check dams are, how they work, and why they are an important part of erosion and sediment control strategies for commercial properties, construction sites, and municipal stormwater systems.

What Is a Check Dam?

A check dam is a small, temporary or permanent barrier constructed across a drainage channel, swale, or small waterway. Unlike large dams, check dams are designed to be low-cost, low-profile structures that:

• Slow stormwater flow in ditches or channels
• Reduce erosive velocity of runoff
• Capture sediment before it reaches downstream waterways
• Encourage infiltration into the soil

Check dams can be made from a variety of materials, including:

• Rock or riprap (most common in permanent applications)
• Sandbags (for temporary projects)
• Logs, brush, or timber
  
• Wattles or compost filter socks
  
• Concrete or gabions (engineered for higher durability)

How Check Dams Reduce Erosion

The main goal of a check dam is to disrupt the energy of flowing water. Fast-moving runoff has the power to cut into soil, destabilize slopes, and transport large amounts of sediment downstream. By breaking up flow in stages, check dams help:

1. Decrease water velocity – slowing stormwater prevents scouring of channels and gullies.
2. Trap sediment – particles carried in runoff settle out behind the dam.
3. Promote infiltration – water pools temporarily, giving it more time to soak into the ground.
4. Protect infrastructure – stabilized drainage channels help prevent costly repairs to stormwater systems, roads, and landscaping.

Common Applications for Check Dams

Check dams are used across a wide range of stormwater and erosion control projects, including:

• Construction sites – Temporary check dams help control sediment-laden runoff until permanent stabilization is complete.
• Roadside ditches and swales – Prevent channel erosion along highways and commercial properties.
• Slopes and embankments – Useful in steep areas where runoff gains erosive force quickly.
• Urban stormwater systems – Often paired with bioswales or grassed channels to improve water quality.

Design Considerations for Effective Check Dams

While check dams are simple in concept, proper design and placement are critical for effectiveness and compliance with local stormwater regulations. Best practices include:

• Spacing: Install multiple check dams along a channel, ensuring the toe of the upstream dam is level with the crest of the downstream dam.
• Height: Typically less than 3 feet tall to prevent overtopping hazards.
• Anchoring: Materials must be properly keyed into the channel to resist displacement during high flows.
• Maintenance: Regular inspections are necessary to remove accumulated sediment, repair damage, and ensure flow is not bypassing the dam.

Environmental and Regulatory Benefits

Check dams provide both environmental protection and regulatory compliance benefits:

• Help properties meet EPA NPDES stormwater permit requirements by reducing sediment discharge.
• Protect local waterways from excessive nutrient and pollutant loads.
• Support sustainable site management by preserving soil health and stabilizing disturbed areas.

Professional Erosion Control Services

While small-scale check dams can be installed with basic materials, larger projects or sites subject to strict stormwater regulations require professional design and maintenance. Partnering with an experienced stormwater management team ensures check dams are properly sized, installed, and maintained for long-term performance.

📞 Call us at (410) 231-3455 or 💬 Contact us online to discuss stormwater solutions tailored to your site.

Key Takeaway

Check dams are a cost-effective and practical erosion control tool that can play a vital role in stormwater management. By slowing runoff, capturing sediment, and protecting drainage systems, they help safeguard both property and the environment.

Whether on a construction site, a roadside channel, or a commercial property, properly designed check dams should be part of any comprehensive erosion and sediment control plan.