What is the main goal of retaining runoff on a construction site?

The primary aim of retaining runoff on a construction site is to prevent soil erosion. When rainwater flows over bare soil or disturbed land, it has the potential to carry away topsoil and nutrients, leading to significant environmental degradation and loss of land integrity. By managing the runoff and keeping it on-site, construction projects can minimize the erosive forces of water, which in turn helps to protect soil structure and fertility. This is critical not only for maintaining the sustainability of the construction site but also for protecting nearby water bodies from sedimentation and pollutants that can be washed away during rain events. Effective erosion control methods, such as silt fences, sediment basins, and other best management practices, are designed specifically to achieve this goal, thereby enhancing overall site stability and environmental protection.