Check dams and wattles are used in the messy middle of construction, when disturbed soil and changing grades make runoff harder to predict. We install them in small channels, swales, and grade breaks to slow water down, knock down velocity, and trap sediment before concentrated flow cuts ruts. They are temporary by design, meant to buy time until permanent stabilization is in place-seeded cover is up, slopes are protected, and final drainage features are functioning.
On GDOT-influenced work, we handle check dams and wattles as part of the overall erosion and sediment control plan. That means coordinating locations and timing with grading, stabilization, and drainage so water is managed where it concentrates most. The point is not to block water; it's to control where it goes and how it moves until the site reaches a stable condition.
Before we set a single wattle or rock dam, we read the ground and the construction sequence. We look at the contributing area, the expected flow path, and where water can safely exit without cutting around the control. Soil type affects how aggressive we need to be with key-in, anchoring, and spacing. Sandy or loose soils can wash quickly once flow concentrates; tighter clays may hold shape early but still scour when water finds a seam or low spot. A common failure on active sites is skipping prep-placing material on loose spoil or on a line that will be regraded the next day-so we focus on firm contact with the subgrade, trenching where required, and clean tie-ins at the ends to prevent bypass.
Different materials do different jobs, so we install based on what the plan is trying to accomplish. Straw wattles and compost filter socks are typically used to intercept sheet flow, help define flow paths, and provide short-term protection while vegetation establishes. Rock check dams are better suited to small channels and concentrated flow, where weight, stone size, and a stable tie-in matter more than filtration. With rock, we shape the dam so overflow occurs at a controlled low point in the center and key the sides so water doesn't cut around the edges. With wattles and socks, we focus on tight soil contact, trench depth when required, correct staking patterns, and consistent overlaps so flow doesn't sneak under or between sections. Where the plan calls for specific details or spacing, we install to match that intent and keep the work clean and inspectable.
Because check dams and wattles are temporary, they require follow-up to stay effective. We plan routine checks after rain events, after upstream grading changes, and anywhere concentrated flow has shifted. Sediment removal is part of keeping them serviceable; once trapped material reduces capacity, performance drops and bypass risk goes up. Damaged sections need to be reset or replaced before the next storm. As permanent drainage comes online and the area stabilizes-vegetation rooted, blanket installed, or final surface placed-temporary controls should be removed or transitioned without leaving new erosion points behind. Scope and pricing depend on access, slopes, the length of run to be protected, and how much weather exposure the site will see during construction.
