Wattles are one of the most common stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) used on construction sites. However, not all wattles function the same way. While traditional straw wattles have long been used for erosion and sediment control, many projects are utilizing wood chip wattles as an alternative solution. Depending on site conditions, slope, wildlife, and maintenance needs, one option may perform better than the other. In this blog, we’ll discuss the differences between wood chip and straw wattles, their applications on construction sites, and why adaptive BMP selection plays an important role in effective stormwater compliance.
Traditional Straw Wattles
Straw wattles are commonly used to slow runoff, reduce erosion, and capture sediment on disturbed soil areas. They are lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and easy to install. This makes them a popular BMP on many construction sites. Straw wattles are often placed along slopes, perimeter controls, or drainage paths where stormwater flow needs to be slowed before sediment leaves the site.
However, in Colorado and other areas with active wildlife, straw wattles can create ongoing maintenance challenges. Birds and small animals frequently pull straw from the wattles for nesting material or shelter. Cows and prairie dogs will try to eat the straw in more rural areas. Over time, this can damage the integrity of the BMP and reduce its effectiveness. Once the wattles begin to break apart, sediment can bypass the control, requiring replacement or additional corrective actions.
Why Some Sites Are Switching to Wood Chip Wattles
Wood chip wattles have been around a while and are a more common alternative on Colorado construction sites. They are generally more durable and less attractive to wildlife. Instead of loose straw, these wattles use wood-based material that tends to stay contained longer and hold its shape more effectively over time.
For projects that experience frequent wildlife disturbance, wood chip wattles can help reduce maintenance needs and improve long-term BMP performance. They may also perform better in areas with higher wind exposure, where loose straw material can become displaced more easily.
Another advantage is consistency. Since wood chip wattles often maintain their structure longer, site teams may spend less time replacing damaged controls or cleaning up displaced material after storms and inspections.
Choosing the Right BMP for the Site
No single BMP works perfectly for every project. Site conditions, terrain, drainage patterns, weather, and maintenance capabilities all play a role in determining which control measures are most effective.
This is where adaptive BMP selection becomes important. As construction progresses and site conditions change, stormwater controls may also need to change. What works during initial grading may not be the best option during vertical construction or final stabilization.
Evaluating BMP performance during routine inspections helps identify when adjustments are needed. If traditional straw wattles are repeatedly failing due to wildlife activity, wind, or maintenance issues, switching to wood chip wattles may provide a more reliable solution.
If your project needs support with stormwater inspections, BMP evaluations, or SWMP compliance, Summit Services Group can help identify practical solutions that work for your site conditions.