Erosion Control Technology Council celebrates 25 years

Denver — After 25 years, the Erosion Control Technology Council (ECTC) has left its mark on the industry. Through leadership, standardization and educational efforts, the ECTC has had a positive influence on the industry since being established by a small group of people who wanted to improve the erosion and sediment control industry.

The organization was created in 1992 to assist agencies, engineers, designers, contractors and other entities in the proper application, installation and specification of erosion and sediment control technologies. The goal was to standardize terminology, product categorization, testing methodology and provide best practices with the installers of these products through education and standardization.

Since 1992, the ECTC has been responsible for developing the classification system for erosion control products used by professionals and government agencies, including departments of transportation and the Army Corps of Engineers. The classifications group products as Rolled Erosion Control Products (RECPs), Sediment Retention Fiber Rolls (SRFRs) and Hydraulic Erosion Control Products (HECPs).

ECTC has worked with the National Transportation Product Evaluation Program (NTPEP) to aid in developing testing protocols for the industry. Infrastructure construction and development are frequent users of erosion control products. DOTs can use the data that is generated to select and place products on approved product lists sponsored by the state departments of transportation. ECTC has also developed installation guidelines and videos to educate transportation engineers, contractors and installers on the proper installation of erosion control materials. Over the past 25 years, ECTC has conducted training courses for departments of transportation (DOTs) across the country. ECTC also works in concert with other industry organizations to ensure material quality and standardization of manufactured goods in the growing industry.

ECTC’s members remain dedicated professionals who are committed to developing the best engineering solutions for controlling soil loss, assisting with vegetation establishment, and better managing stormwater and water quality. Engineers are implementing erosion and sediment control measures at greater rates every year and enjoying the benefits of industry best practices.