Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Practice Test

When installing a check dam, where should the low point of the check dam be located?

1. At the first point of erosion

2. Along the top of the slope

3. At the middle of a channel

4. Near the edge of the property

The correct answer is: At the middle of a channel

The correct answer indicates that the low point of the check dam should be located at the middle of a channel. This position is important because placing the low point in the middle of the channel allows for effective water retention and sediment trapping. Check dams are designed to slow down the flow of water, which helps to reduce erosion and allows sediments to settle out of the water. By locating the low point in the middle of the channel, the check dam can efficiently capture and retain the runoff before it has a chance to gain momentum downstream, thereby reducing the risk of erosion at the most susceptible areas. In contrast, positioning the low point at the first point of erosion could allow water to bypass the dam without adequate retention, undermining its purpose. Situating it along the top of the slope or near the edge of the property may not effectively control water flow within the channel, potentially leading to inadequate sediment control and increased erosion downstream.