If there is one thing that really stands out to me about my mentorship, then it is how rain water and different slopes of land can drastically affect other areas that are "developed." Many areas that are being developed must be watched very carefully to ensure that no topsoil is escaping from the site and running with the flow of water to another piece of property. If this occurs at a location then the landowner could be fined. Engineers must keep a close eye on the contractors to make sure they are implementing all of the barriers and are retaining the soil at the site.
During my mentorship so far I have visited sites and analyzed how the flow of water could be diverted or slowed down to reduce or eliminate these problems. This is not only a problem at sites that are being developed but also very common at sites that are developed. Problems with clogged sewer lines and detention ponds can lead to flooding and even sink holes. For instance, if you are at the Best Buy in Gainesville and divert your attention to the parking lot, then you can visualize a problem with a detention pond. When the Gainesville location was built they were required to have a detention pond for their parking lot drainage. With no other place to put it because of insufficient space, they decided to put it under the parking lot. This site has recently been excavated because of a sinkhole starting to form in the parking lot.
If not monitored properly by engineers and those alike then buildings and other attractive architecture could be ruined by the great power of Mother Nature.
Detention Pond Example
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Silt Fencing and Proper Matting
