Soil erosion and the control of sediment greatly impact our city's watershed. Sediment is made up of clay, sand, and various other particles that often settle at the bottom of a stream or body of water, forming through soil erosion and construction activities. Too much sediment in the watershed can cause problems for all of our city's inhabitants. Sediment pollutes drinking water, damages plant and animal habitats, and even clogs storm drains, resulting in increased flooding.

The City of Colorado Springs has developed policies and regulations surrounding the construction of new facilities as it relates to soil erosion and sediment control. A Grading and Erosion Control Plan must be submitted and approved prior to the start of land-disturbing activities.