Vegetated Filter Strip System Design Manual
Operation and Maintenance

3.9 Operation and Maintenance

• 3.9.1 Runoff Area and Storage (Integrated or External)
• 3.9.2 Collection/Discharge Bay
• 3.9.3 Pumps
• 3.9.4 Piping
• 3.9.5 Infiltation Area
• 3.9.6 Winter Operation
• 3.9.7 Accessibility
• 3.9.8 Safety
• 3.9.9 VFS System Inspection Sheet
• Inspection Sheet

3.9.1 Runoff Area and Storage (Integrated or External)

Cleaning

For integrated storage facilities, the manure should be removed routinely from the runoff collection area to maintain a minimum depth and minimize the nutrient uptake by rainwater.

Diversion of Clean Water

The VFS system will be designed based on the premise that the components required to service the runoff area in a storm event are in-place and operating. Ensure that diversion of the upslope water (such as barn roof runoff) is occurring. Regularly inspect upslope diversion equipment, such as gutters and roof downspouts.

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3.9.2 Collection/Discharge Bay

Collection/Discharge Bay

The collection/discharge bay must be cleaned regularly to reduce the potential for clogging the riser pipe and drainpipe orifice. Daily inspection and maintenance activity is required to achieve this.

Screen Cleaning

Inspect screens after large storm events and clean as required. Periodic cleaning is also recommended.

Sump Inspection

Routine inspection of the silt level in the sump is required to ensure that the solids do not interfere with siphon/pump operation and convey solids to the infiltration area.

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3.9.3 Pumps

Controls

The runoff pump operates on a float system, so that the pump starts and stops are activated automatically by the level of water in the sump. The control system must be inspected and tested regularly.

Cleaning

The pump requires regular cleaning to prevent interruption to operations and/or damage. Refer to the manufacturer-supplied pump operations and maintenance manual.

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3.9.4 Piping

Cleaning

Flushing of piping may provide the most effective cleaning method. This can be achieved by running clean water through the system at a velocity higher than normally experienced in the system, if possible.

In pumped systems, caution should be taken to maintain flows through the pump as recommended by the manufacturer.

If particular sections of the piping are clogged, disassemble the piping and thoroughly clean at these sections.

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3.9.5 Infiltration Area

Splash Pad

The splash pad should be regularly inspected. Levelling and removal of solids and debris may be required.

Spreaders

Periodic maintenance may be required if erosion develops in the spreader. Therefore, spreaders should be inspected periodically (at least annually) to confirm that they are level and functioning properly.

Solids Entry and Plugging

If high suspended-solids content runoff is continuously directed to the infiltration area, it may become clogged as the solids settle. The appropriate design and maintenance of the runoff and storage/settling facilities should prevent this from occurring.

If solids are observed on the infiltration area, the upstream contribution must be investigated. To reactivate the infiltration area, remove any visible solids, till and re-establish vegetation. Runoff must be directed to other nutrient management facilities during this maintenance period. Alternatively, aeration of the infiltration area may be sufficient to remove blockage..

Maintaining Vegetation

Maintenance of the infiltration area is necessary to ensure a healthy and vigorous vegetative cover. Routine inspection of the infiltration area vegetative cover will be required to ensure 100 per cent coverage and consistent sheet flow. Should small breaks in the vegetative cover or erosion rills be observed, immediate action to correct the deficiency is required. During the initial startup period, irrigation of the infiltration area may be required to promote germination of sown seed. Liquid manure or other similar nutrients should not be applied to the infiltration area. However, other fertilizer may be required for initial establishment of the vegetation. Mowing of the infiltration area should occur 3-4 times during the growing season and especially if weed species migrate into the site, or if thatch buildup begins to smother and limit vegetation density. The harvested crop of hay from the infiltration area can be used for livestock feed. Every effort must be made to ensure that any equipment driven on the infiltration area does not impact the integrity of the sheet flow path, compact the soil or alter the infiltration area hydraulic conductivity, or generate rills or ridges parallel to the flow.

Discharge Observations

During the active operating mode, observe the infiltration area regularly to determine whether it meets the objective of zero discharge (off the lower end of the infiltration area) for the maximum-design storm. If discharge is observed, this indicates that the infiltration area is not operating as designed. Determine the cause and take corrective action.

If the infiltration area does not operate with zero discharge under normal operating conditions, it should be removed from service until the problem is solved, and the runoff should be directed to alternative storage, use, or disposal to reduce the potential for adverse effect on the receiving water.

Safety Measures

The infiltration area should fenced to protect it from uncontrolled grazing. Maintain vegetation by mowing or controlling grazing. Fencing, berms, and other structural components of the infiltration area should be inspected regularly to identify any safety concerns.

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3.9.6 Winter Operation

Runoff should occur in winter only during periods of warmer weather (thaws). All piping should be designed to be empty unless flowing. The sump should be deep enough and covered to prevent freezing of the pump. If the sump freezes, turn off the pump until the ice melts.

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3.9.7 Accessibility

Provide access, as required, to operate and maintain the system. Minimum access requirements are:

• screens
• collection pipe
• storage/setting basin
• sump
• pump
• conveyance & distribution pipes/channels
• splash pad
• infiltration area

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3.9.8 Safety

Two primary hazards are associated with the VFS system: water and electricity (for pumped systems). Adequate protection should be provided to reduce the potential for accidents during and following construction. The Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations for Construction Projects, available from the Ontario Ministry of Labour, telephone 1-800-268-8013, provide information on the responsibilities of the constructor.

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3.9.9 VFS System Inspection Sheet

Inspect the VFS system on a regular basis to ensure that all the components are functioning adequately. The following "VFS System Inspection Sheet" will provide a written record of inspection activities that have been undertaken.

Vegetative Filter Strip System Inspection Sheet

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