Concrete waste kills fish by clogging gills and causing asphyxiation. Locate a washout area at least 50 feet from any storm drain, open ditch, or water body. Prevent runoff from this area by constructing a temporary lined pit or bermed area large enough for liquid and solid waste. Wash waste into the temporary pit, allow the concrete to set, break it up and then use proper disposal sites.
Storage and Disposal
Exposed aggregate concrete washouts must be collected and disposed of properly like all other concrete products. Store dry and wet material under cover away from drainage areas. Train employees and subcontractors to dispose of concrete properly. Do not allow excess concrete to be dumped on site, except in designated areas.
Porous Concrete
Consider using porous concrete to allow stormwater to soak into the ground, reduce runoff and recharge groundwater. Porous concrete is one of several Low-Impact Development (LID) options that imitate the natural hydrology (or movement of water) of your site. Use LID in your project to help protect water quality and environmental resources.
More information
- Concrete Pollution Solutions (PDF)
- Porous Concrete/Asphalt Advanced Methods and Materials Sheet (PDF)
- Puget Sound Partnership – LID Resources
- Construction Waste Recycling & Reuse (PDF)
