The AHTD relies on a well trained workforce to implement erosion and sediment control measures on highway construction and maintenance projects. To accomplish this, periodic instruction from various sources is provided for AHTD employees on NPDES permit requirements and on installation, maintenance, and inspection of erosion and sediment control measures.
A National Highway Institute training course, “Design and Implementation of Erosion and Sediment Control” is offered periodically to provide initial training to engineering personnel in the design and construction fields.
Since 2005, annual training has been provided by a team from the AHTD Environmental Division at each district headquarters. This training included regulations, soil erosion overview, selection and installation of temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control devices, inspection and maintenance of devices, and regulatory inspections. In 2008, the AHTD engaged a nationally recognized erosion and sediment control consultant to provide training for both AHTD personnel and contractors.
In 2009, the AHTD completed an agreement with the University of Arkansas Center for Training Transportation Professionals (CTTP) to conduct erosion and sediment control training and certification for Department construction and maintenance personnel and contractors. This training is scheduled to begin early in 2010 with a goal of training and certifying all eligible Department personnel over the next few years.