When should a sediment/retention pond be checked for effectiveness?

A sediment/retention pond should be checked for effectiveness after each storm event to ensure it is functioning properly and effectively managing sediment and runoff. This frequency is crucial because storm events can significantly alter the conditions within the pond, including its capacity to retain sediment and control erosion. After heavy rainfall, there may be significant changes, such as the accumulation of sediment, which could reduce the pond's effectiveness. Regular checks following storms allow for timely maintenance and adjustments to be made to the system, ensuring it continues to meet environmental protection standards and function as intended.

Inspecting the pond at this interval also helps in identifying any potential issues before they escalate, such as clogging or overflow, which could lead to increased erosion downstream or other water quality concerns. The other options, such as checking only at the end of the project, before construction starts, or once a year, do not provide the necessary level of monitoring to ensure ongoing effectiveness and compliance with environmental regulations throughout the construction process.