What is the primary purpose of an anti seep collar in a sediment basin?

The primary purpose of an anti-seep collar in a sediment basin is to prevent piping along the barrel of the outlet structure. When water flows through an outlet structure, there is a potential risk of erosive forces creating underground channels or "pipes" in the soil, leading to instability or failure of the structure.

The anti-seep collar acts as a physical barrier, reducing the likelihood of water seeping around the outlet and causing erosion. It provides a way to improve the stability and integrity of the sediment basin by redirecting water flow and encouraging deposition of sediment rather than allowing it to carry through the outlet without control. This is crucial in maintaining the effectiveness of sediment control measures and protecting the integrity of the basin itself.

Understanding this function is key in designing and implementing effective erosion and sediment control measures. By focusing on preventing the piping phenomenon, which can compromise the safety and functionality of sediment basins, practitioners ensure that sediment loads are managed effectively and that water quality degrading processes are minimized.