Maximizing Environmental Protection with Floating Silt Curtains

January 10th 2024




Maximizing Environmental Protection with Floating Silt Curtains,

Floating silt curtains from West Coast Spill Supplies are essential tools in environmental protection, particularly in aquatic settings near construction sites. These curtains act as barriers, designed to contain and control sediment, ensuring that the water remains clear and unpolluted. This is crucial for preserving aquatic ecosystems and adhering to environmental regulations. The versatility of these curtains lies in their ability to be customized for various project requirements, including adjustable length and buoyancy, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

The Canadian-made floating silt curtains that we supply in BC and Alberta combine functionality with ease of use. They are designed to withstand diverse environmental conditions while ensuring simple deployment and management. In the following sections, we will explore the technical specifications and environmental benefits of our floating silt curtains.

Why Use Floating Silt Curtains?

Floating silt curtains are an essential tool for environmental protection in water-adjacent construction and maintenance projects. They serve three key purposes: waterway cleanliness, sediment control, and compliance with environmental regulations.

  • Waterway Cleanliness: The primary function of floating silt curtains is to prevent sediment and other pollutants from spreading into clean water areas. This is particularly important in preserving the quality of water in lakes, rivers, and seas. By containing sediments, these curtains help maintain the natural balance of aquatic ecosystems, protecting plant and animal life.

  • Sediment Control in Construction Areas: Construction activities near or in water bodies often dislodge soil and other materials, leading to sedimentation in the water. Floating silt curtains effectively contain this dislodged material, minimizing turbidity and maintaining clarity in the water. This is essential not only for the health of the aquatic environment but also for the visual and aesthetic quality of the water.

  • Compliance with Environmental Regulations: Many regions have strict guidelines and laws to protect water bodies from pollution due to construction and industrial activities. Using floating silt curtains helps in complying with these regulations, avoiding potential legal and financial penalties. It demonstrates a commitment to responsible environmental practices, which is increasingly important to both regulators and the public.

The adaptability of these curtains to different project scopes and environments makes them a versatile solution. Whether it's a small shoreline restoration project or a large-scale marine construction, floating silt curtains provide an effective and reliable method for sediment control.

Technical Specifications

Floating silt curtains from West Coast Spill Supplies are engineered with specific technical features to cater to diverse environmental needs. These curtains are designed with various depth capacities and lengths, making them suitable for different water conditions and project scales. Here's a quick overview of their technical specifications, which demonstrate the product's adaptability and effectiveness in sediment control.

Floating Silt Curtain Item Specifications
Item #Approx. Water DepthLengthWeight
KI-FSC77 ft50 ft30 lbs
KI-FSC1313 ft50 ft40 lbs
KI-FSC1919 ft50 ft50 lbs
Floating Silt Curtain General Specifications
Standard FSC Nonwoven (Typar)
Standard Sizes7' x 50'
Standard Sizes13' x 50'
Standard Sizes19' x 50'
Flow RatesStanding Water
Float Size100mm x 100mm
4" x 4"
Buoyancy102 N/m
7 lbs/ft
Float CoversRPE Orange
Top Load LineNone
Body FabricSpun Bonded nonwoven
Grab Tensile575 N
130lbs
Tear Strength267 N
60 lbs
AOS0.212 mm
70 sieve
Stress PlatesNot Included
Bottom ChainNot Included, Sold Separately
DurabilityLimited Use
SeamingSewn

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of using floating silt curtains is positive and far-reaching. These curtains play a crucial role in preserving aquatic ecosystems by effectively containing and controlling sediment dispersion. This containment is vital for protecting water quality, ensuring that aquatic life thrives, and reducing the risk of harmful algal blooms often caused by excessive sedimentation. Using these curtains demonstrates your organization’s commitment to sustainable practices, as they help maintain the ecological balance of water bodies affected by construction or other disturbances.

Moreover, floating silt curtains contribute to minimizing the carbon footprint of construction projects near water bodies. By localizing sediment and reducing the need for extensive dredging operations, they help lower fuel consumption and emissions associated with such activities. This aligns with broader environmental goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner construction practices.

Conclusion

Discover how floating silt curtains from West Coast Spill Supplies can be an integral part of your environmental management strategy in BC, Alberta, and beyond. Visit our floating silt curtain product page for more information and to make a purchase.