Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

If a project is not completed before fall, what measures must remain in place during winter?

1. Permanent measures

2. Temporary measures

3. Contingency measures

4. Supplementary measures

The correct answer is: Temporary measures

In the context of stormwater management, if a project is not completed before fall, it’s essential for temporary measures to remain in place during the winter months. Temporary measures are designed to control sediment and runoff during construction activities, especially when the site may be left exposed to the elements, such as rain or snow. Winter conditions can lead to increased runoff and erosion if proper controls are not maintained. Temporary measures, such as silt fences, straw bales, and erosion control blankets, are specifically intended to be used throughout the construction phase to minimize these risks. They help stabilize the site until final stabilization can be achieved with permanent measures. Permanent measures are established after construction for long-term management and are not appropriate to implement when work is still ongoing and the project is not completed. Contingency measures are typically reactive strategies put in place in response to specific situations or failures, and they wouldn't be standard for ongoing site management. Supplementary measures may support existing controls but do not replace the need for active, ongoing temporary measures during winter. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that temporary measures remain in place to effectively manage stormwater runoff until the project can be fully completed.