8305 20100428 CE Guidelines v1.1

Construction and Establishment
Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention

Systems and Wetlands
Version 1.1, April 2010
Water by Design is a program of the South East Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership
Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention
Systems and Wetlands
Water by Design
Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales,is aBioretention
program of theSystems
South Eastand
Queensland
WetlandsHealthy Waterways Partnership 1
© South East Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership 2009
This work may be reproduced in whole or part for study or training purposes subject to inclusion
of an acknowledgment of the source and no commercial usage or sale. Reproduction for the
purposes other than those named above requires the permission of the South East Queensland
Healthy Waterways Partnership office. Requests and enquires concerning reproduction rights
should be forwarded to info@waterbydesign.com.au
ISBN 978-0-9806278-0-0
This report should be cited as: Water by Design, 2010, Construction and Establishment
Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands, South East Queensland Healthy
Waterways Partnership, Brisbane.
Disclaimer
The material contained in this publication is produced for general information only. It is not
intended as professional advice on specific applications. It is the responsibility of the user to
determine the suitability and appropriateness of the material contained in this publication to
specific applications. No person should act or fail to act on the basis of any material contained in
this publication without first obtaining specific independent professional advice. The South East
Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership (SEQHWP) expressly disclaim all and any liability to
any person in respect of anything done by any such person in reliance, whether in whole or in part,
on this publication. The information contained in this publication does not necessarily represent
the views of the funding partners.
Acknowledgements
The Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands
were developed by the Water by Design program of the South East Queensland Healthy
Waterways Partnership, with financial assistance from the State of Queensland acting through
the Department of Environment and Resource Management.
Authoring Team: The guidelines were authored by Shaun Leinster (DesignFlow) and Robin Allison
(DesignFlow) with significant input provided by Damian McCann (Australian Wetlands).
A number of government and industry stakeholders provided valuable input to the development
of the guidelines. The principal review of the guidelines was undertaken by Geoff Hunter
(J Wyndam Prince) with reviews also by (in alphabetical order) Jeff Byrne (Gary Dean
Constructions), Peter Curley (Environmental Protection Agency), Alan Hoban (Water by Design
program, SEQHWP), Greg Jenkyns (Shadforths Civil Contractors), Leon Rowlands (Sunshine
Coast Regional Council), Nick Sommes (Ecodynamics), Steve Tracey (Sunshine Coast Regional
Council) and landscape assessment staff at Sunshine Coast Regional Council. Scott Paten
(Brisbane City Council) and Grant Witherridge (Catchments and Creeks) also provided input
to the guidelines.
Project Manager: Sarah Jones (Water by Design program, SEQHWP).
Editor: Justine Gannon (Proof etc).
The photos contained in these guidelines are credited to (as indicated by the number in the
bottom right hand corner of each photo):
1. Shaun Leinster (DesignFlow, EDAW Ecological Engineering)
2. Andrew O’Neill (DesignFlow)
3. Alan Hoban (Water by Design, EDAW Ecological Engineering)
4. Sally Boer (EDAW Ecological Engineering)
5. Robin Allison (DesignFlow, EDAW Ecological Engineering)
6. Peter Breen (EDAW Ecological Engineering)
7. Geoff Hunter (J Wyndham Prince)
Sections of these guidelines are drawn from the Water Sensitive Urban Design Technical Design
 
Guidelines for South East Queensland (SEQHWP, 2006).
Water by Design welcomes feedback on the guidelines which can be directed to

info@waterbydesign.com.au
Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

Water by Design
Water by Design was established in 2005 and is a program of the South
East Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership. Water by Design builds
capacity of the water and urban development sectors to help successfully
implement sustainable urban water management. Sustainable management
of the urban water cycle supports sustainable development, including
protection of the natural water cycle.
South East Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership

South East Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership is a
collaboration between government, industry, researchers and the
community. The Partnership was created in 2001. The partners work
together to improve catchment management and waterway health in
Moreton Bay and the rivers of South East Queensland between Noosa and
the Queensland-New South Wales border. The Partnership also manages the
Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program (EHMP), which produces an annual
report card on the health of the region’s waterways, estuaries and bays.
Further information on the SEQ Healthy Waterways Partnership and the

Water by Design Program, is available from www.healthywaterways.org
and www.waterbydesign.com.au
This document is available for download from www.waterbydesign.com.au
Sign-off Forms
Each section of this document contains sample sign-off forms. A set of
editable sign-off forms is available from www.waterbydesign.com.au

CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
1.1 Background and context of the guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1.2 Scope and structure of the guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
1.3 Audience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1.4 How to use the guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1.5 How to enforce the guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1.6 Evolution of the guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2 SWALES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.1 Swales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.2 Roles and responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2.3 Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2.4 Civil considerations and specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2.4.1 Ordering materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2.4.2 Tolerances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
2.4.3 Flush kerbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
2.5 Landscape considerations and specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
2.5.1 Topsoil specification and installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
2.5.2 Plant types and density . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2.5.3 Plant procurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2.5.4 Mulching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
2.5.5 Planting procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.5.6 Watering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.5.7 Measuring success. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.6 Managing sediment during the building phase. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.6.1 Development phases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.7 Staged construction and establishment methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.7.1 Option 1: Surface protection with temporary vegetation . . . . . 25
2.7.2 Option 2: Surface protection with permanent vegetation. . . . . 26
2.8 Step-by-step sequence — Options 1 and 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.8.1 Civil construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.8.2 Stage 2 — Building phase protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
2.8.3 Landscape establishment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
2.9 Potential failure and rectification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
2.10 Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
2.11 Compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
2.12 Civil and landscape contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
2.12.1 Contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
2.12.2 Ownership and handover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
2.13 Sign-Off Forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
3 BIORETENTION SYSTEMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
3.1 Bioretention Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
3.2 Roles and Responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
3.3 Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
3.4 Civil considerations and specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
3.4.1 Ordering materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
3.4.2 Tolerances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
3.4.3 Hydraulic structures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

3.4.4 Bioretention system liners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
3.4.5 Under-drainage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
3.4.6 Installing and compacting bioretention media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
3.4.7 Construction issues with large bioretention systems. . . . . . . . . 59
3.4.8 Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
3.4.9 Coarse sediment capture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
3.4.10 Maintenance access. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
3.5 Bioretention media specification and certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
3.5.1 Filter media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
3.5.2 Transition layer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
3.5.3 Drainage layer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
3.5.5 Saturated zones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
3.5.6 Certification and chain of custody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
3.5.7 Compliance testing
(for on-maintenance or off-maintenance). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
3.6 Landscape considerations and specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
3.6.1 Planting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
3.6.2 Plant procurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
3.6.3 Preparing filter media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
3.6.4 Mulching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
3.6.5 Planting procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
3.6.6 Watering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
3.6.7 Measures of successfully established plants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
3.7.1 Managing sediment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
3.8 Staged construction and establishment methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
3.8.1 Option 1: Surface protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
3.8.2 Option 2: Bypass flows and early establishment
of vegetation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
3.8.3 Option 3: Sediment basin and bioretention function. . . . . . . . . . . 72
3.8.4 Option 4: Leave as sediment basin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
3.9 Step-by-step sequence – Options 1, 2 and 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
3.9.1 Stage 1 – Civil construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
3.9.2 Stage 2 – Building phase protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
3.9.3 Stage 3 – Landscape establishment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
3.10 Step-by-step sequence – Option 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
3.10.1 Stage 1 – Civil construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
3.10.2 Stage 2 – Building phase protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
3.10.3 Stage 3 – Civil construction and landscape establishment. . . . . 91
3.11 Potential failure and rectification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
3.12 Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
3.13 Compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
3.14 Civil and landscape contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
3.14.1 Contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
3.14.2 Ownership and handover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
3.15 Sign-Off Forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

4 CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
4.1 Constructed Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
4.2 Roles and responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
4.3 Timing .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
4.4 Civil considerations and specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
4.4.1 Controlling erosion and sediment during
the construction phase. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
4.4.2 Hydraulic structures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
4.4.3 Impervious liner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
4.4.4 Earthworks and trimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
4.4.5 Tolerances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
4.4.6 Maintenance access. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
4.5 Landscape considerations and specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
4.5.1 Topsoil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
4.5.2 Plant types and density . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
4.5.3 Plant procurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
4.5.4 Timing of planting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
4.5.5 Planting procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
4.5.6 Water level control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
4.5.7 Watering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
4.5.8 Weed control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
4.5.9 Bird protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
4.5.10 Measuring success. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
4.6.1 Managing sediment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
4.7 Staged construction and establishment methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
4.7.1 Option 1: Bypass flows and early establishment
of vegetation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
4.7.2 Option 2: Leave as sediment basin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
4.8 Step-by-step sequence – Option 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
4.8.1 Stage 1 – Civil works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
4.8.2 Stage 2 – Building phase protection and Stage 3 –
Landscape Establishment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
4.8.3 Stage 3 – Landscape establishment (inlet zone only) . . . . . . . . . 147
4.9 Step-by-step sequence – Option 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
4.9.1 Stage 1 – Civil works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
4.9.2 Stage 2 – Building phase protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
4.9.3 Stage 3 – Civil works and landscape establishment. . . . . . . . . . . 152
4.10 Potential failure and rectification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
4.11 Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
4.12 Compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
4.13 Civil and landscape contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

4.13.1 Contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
4.13.2 Ownership and handover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
4.14 Sign-Off Forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
5 REFERENCES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

ONE INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background and context
of the guidelines
Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) is a design Experience shows that the critical periods in the life
philosophy that integrates land and water planning of WSUD vegetated stormwater management systems
and management into urban design. WSUD is based are the construction and establishment phases. The
on the idea that urban development and redevelopment timing and approach to these systems must be carefully
must address the sustainability of water, integrating considered to ensure successful establishment and
it into the built form at the earliest stage of the decision long-term performance.WSUD is a relatively new
-making process. WSUD systems take a number of concept for contractors, site inspectors and compliance
forms focusing on demand management, wastewater officers responsible for construction and establishment.
minimisation and stormwater management. Industry stakeholders have highlighted that a major
barrier to the successful implementation of WSUD,
Various tools and guidelines are available, or are
and in particular vegetated stormwater management
in preparation, to assist in planning, designing and
systems, is a lack of appropriate guidelines and
implementing WSUD in Queensland. Figure 1.1 illustrates
protocols for constructing and establishing WSUD.
these tools and how they can be used in the context
The Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales,
of a typical urban development process.
Bioretention Systems and Wetlands focus on vegetated
stormwater management systems.
Figure 1.1: WSUD tools and guidelines in press
or available from www.waterbydesign.com.au
Concept Design Guidelines
MUSIC Modelling Guidelines
Stormwater Harvesting Guidelines Deemed to Comply Solutions

Technical Design Guidelines
& Sample Site Layouts
Standard Drawings

Guidelines
Available 2009
Asset Management Resources
including Guidelines
Available 2010
Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands 9

1.2 Scope and structure of the • Methodologies
guidelines - staged construction and establishment methods
The Water Sensitive Urban Design Construction and - step-by-step construction and establishment
Establishment Guidelines provide a suite of resources guidance
to facilitate the successful delivery of vegetated
- potential failure and rectification
stormwater management systems. The guidelines
specifically address swales (chapter 2), bioretention • Certification and compliance
systems (chapter 3) and constructed wetlands (chapter - certification requirements
4) because these systems are the most commonly
- compliance requirements
applied stormwater management measures in
- civil works and landscape contract requirements
Queensland. Table 1.1 provides an explanation of each
of these management measures. - sign-off forms, including inspection and as
constructed drawing requirements.
Each chapter has a similar structure to help users
negotiate the information. Each chapter is generally
split into the following parts, as described further
in Table 1.2:
• Considerations and specifications

- civil works and landscape specifications
- construction and establishment considerations
- civil works and landscape design advice
Table 1.1: Management measures addressed in the guidelines
CHAPTER MANAGEMENT DESCRIPTION

MEASURE
2 Swales Vegetated swales are small vegetated depressions in the landscape used to
convey stormwater in lieu of, or in conjunction with, underground pipe drainage
systems. Swales convey stormwater flows along gentle slopes, disconnect
impervious areas from downstream waterways and remove coarse and medium
sediments. They are commonly combined with bioretention systems or trenches
to increase the removal of pollutants.
3 Bioretention Bioretention systems are vegetated soil profiles of sandy loam, sand and gravel
systems layers that capture stormwater on the surface. They treat stormwater as it
percolates through the soil layers. Pollutants are removed by filtration and by the
biological uptake of nutrients.
Bioretention systems are now common stormwater treatment devices in new

urban developments in South East Queensland. Successful construction and
allowing adequate time for the systems to establish is critical to their long-term
performance.
4 Constructed Constructed wetlands are shallow, vegetated water bodies that remove pollutants
wetlands from stormwater by enhanced sedimentation, fine filtration and biological uptake.
Constructed wetlands are a combination of soil, aquatic vegetation and

stormwater. Construction and establishment can present challenges.
10 Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

Table 1.2: Structure of each chapter
SUB-SECTION DESCRIPTION
Swales, bioretention systems and Describes the function of swales, bioretention systems and constructed wetlands
constructed wetlands within the concept of WSUD.
Roles and responsibilities Describes the roles of stakeholders in the construction, establishment and
certification of vegetated stormwater management systems.
Timing Summarises the issues that influence the timing of construction and
establishment of swales, bioretention systems and constructed wetlands.
Civil works considerations and Outlines issues that must be considered when preparing and completing
specifications landscape works and planting. This section can be referred to for specifications
from landscape drawings rather than generating a specification document.
Landscape considerations and Outlines issues that must be considered when preparing and completing
specifications landscape works and planting. This section can be referred to for specifications
from landscape drawings rather than generating a specification document.
Managing sediment during the building Describes problems associated with sediment during the building phase and how
phase these problems can influence construction and establishment of vegetated
systems.
Staged construction and establishment Summarises the need for staged construction and establishment of vegetated
methods stormwater management.
Stage 1 — Civil works construction Provides a step-by-step construction sequence with detailed descriptions and
photos. This section can be laminated and used as an on-site reference during
construction.
Stage 2 — Building phase protection Provides a step-by-step sequence for protecting systems during the building
phase. A number of options are given for bioretention systems. This section can be
laminated and used as an on-site reference during construction.
Stage 3 — Landscape establishment Provides a step-by-step sequence for establishing landscapes with detailed
descriptions and photos. This section can be laminated and used as an on-site
reference during construction.
Potential failure and rectification Outlines system failures as a result of poor construction and establishment.
Actions to rectify system failures are described.
Certification Provides guidance on certification requirements.
Regulation and compliance Provides guidance on how local authorities can reference and mandate these
guidelines and details potential compliance processes.
Civil and landscape contractual issues Briefly outlines how best practice construction and establishment requirements
can be written into civil and landscape contracts.
Sign-Off Forms (addendums) Provides Sign-Off Forms to guide construction, establishment, certification and
compliance. The sign-off forms can be used within contracts, to guide day-to-day
construction and establishment, and to inform certification and compliance.

The contents of the guidelines are tailored for Queensland, The Sign-Off Forms (addendums to the guidelines)
but can be easily applied to areas outside Queensland. are the basis for construction and establishment,
certification and compliance. They should be used within
The guidelines do not cover the asset handover process
contracts, to guide the day-to-day construction and
or the ongoing management of WSUD systems. Water
establishment of the vegetated systems, and to inform
by Design is developing resources to address these
certification and compliance. The other sections of the
issues through the WSUD Asset Handover Guidelines
guidelines should be used as a reference.
and WSUD Asset Maintenance Manual to be published
in 2009. The sections on civil works construction, building
phase protection and landscape establishment provide
Although these guidelines provide the relevant
comprehensive step-by-step guidelines. These sections
specifications critical for correctly functioning
can be laminated and used as an on-site reference during
vegetated stormwater management systems, the
construction.
Water Sensitive Urban Design Technical Guidelines
for South East Queensland (SEQHWP, 2006) should Although written primarily to support the construction
also be consulted for design advice. and establishment of vegetated stormwater systems
that will ultimately be owned by local authorities, the
1.3 Audience guidelines can also be used to support the delivery
These guidelines are intended for professionals of systems that will be privately owned and managed.
responsible for on-the-ground delivery of vegetated
stormwater management systems including:
1.5 How to enforce the guidelines
• WSUD specialists Local authorities have two ways of mandating the
• landscape architects construction and establishment specifications and
the methods outlined in these guidelines.
• civil engineers
Firstly, planning schemes can be amended to refer
• site inspectors
to these guidelines, specifying the preferred
• civil contractors construction method to be applied within a specific
• landscape contractors local government area.
• local government compliance officers. The second approach is to ‘condition’ a preferred
The guidelines particularly support site inspectors, civil construction method with Development Approvals.
contractors, landscape contractors and compliance Conditions within Development Approvals need
officers. These people are responsible for implementing to refer to:
WSUD and may not be aware of the issues associated • the preferred staged construction and establishment
with delivery. The guidelines are based on practical, method
on-ground experience.
• certification of constructed systems using the
Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms
1.4 How to use the guidelines • triggers for on-maintenance and off-maintenance.
The guidelines provide a single reference point for
Water by Design is assisting local authorities in South
the construction and landscape sectors to help deliver
East Queensland to develop a set of Development
vegetated stormwater management systems. Table 1.2
Approval Conditions that can be used to support the
provides a description of sub-sections in each chapter
methods, certification and compliance recommendations
and how they should be used.
provided in these guidelines.
The considerations and specifications sections of the
guidelines outline issues and specifications that must
be taken into account when preparing and completing
civil works. These sections can be referred to for
specifications directly from engineering and landscape
drawings rather than generating a specification
document.

1.6 Evolution of the guidelines
The Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales,
Bioretention Systems and Wetlands provide design
advice that is not contained in existing guidelines and
resources. They will be updated during 2010 and the
design information contained in the guidelines will be
incorporated into the Water Sensitive Urban Design
Technical Design Guidelines for South East Queensland.
Future versions of these guidelines may be developed

to include construction and establishment guidance
for other stormwater management systems including
sedimentation basins, infiltration measures, sand filters
and stormwater harvesting.
Users of the Construction and Establishment Guidelines:

Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands are
encouraged to provide feedback on this document
to info@waterbydesign.com.au. Feedback will be
considered in future updates of the guidelines.

TWO SWALES
2.1 Swales
Vegetated swales are small, vegetated depressions • Bioretention swales — Swales can be combined with
in the landscape used to convey stormwater in lieu a bioretention trench to provide more ‘treatment’ for
of, or in conjunction with, underground pipe drainage fine sediments. Bioretention swales also help to
systems. Swales help to remove sediments and remove more phosphorous and nitrogen before
nutrients from stormwater runoff. They use overland stormwater enters wetlands and other systems, also
flow and gentle slopes to move water slowly as shown in Figure 2 1. There are a number of ways to
downstream. They disconnect impervious areas incorporate a bioretention component into swales:
from downstream waterways, helping to protect the
- by allowing the swale to direct stormwater
waterways from damage caused by frequent storms.
flows into a flat bioretention trench
Vegetated swales also reduce the velocity of
stormwater flows therefore minimising the risk of - by constructing a swale with a bioretention soil
erosion in receiving waterways. profile with local ‘check dams’ to extend the time
water is detained in the swale before it enters other
The vegetation in swales helps pollutants in the
waterways
stormwater to settle and be retained in the soil, rather
than flowing into waterways. Even swales with -by incorporating bioretention into the swale with a
vegetation such as mown grass can capture significant gentle slope.
amounts of sediment if stormwater flows are well This chapter provides guidelines on how to construct
distributed. The grade of the swale should be low enough and establish swales and how to construct the
to keep flow velocities slow. conveyance component of bioretention swales. Detailed
Swales can be installed at many locations in urban guidance is given in Chapter 3 on how to construct and
landscapes. They are usually found in streetscapes, in establish bioretention systems.
centre medians or road verges. Constructing and
Figure 2.1: Typical cross-section through a swale (A)
establishing swales in urban areas can be challenging
and a bioretention swale (B)
because of vehicle movements and because of sediment
created during the building phase of new developments. Turf or vegetation
There are two typical swale ‘types’:
• Conventional swales — Conventional swales are

drainage depressions covered in turf or vegetation.
They have an invert and batters to move stormwater in
a shallow, slow flow as shown in Figure 2.1. Turf or vegetation
Conventional swales ‘pre-treat’ sediments and
nutrients before the stormwater enters wetlands or
bioretention systems. Conventional swales are called
‘swales’ throughout this chapter.

2.2 Roles and responsibilities 2.3 Timing
To successfully construct swales, contractors, swale The timing of construction and establishment for swales
designers, landscape architects, civil engineers and site must be carefully planned to consider erosion and
superintendents must collaborate. Table 2.1 summarises sediment control during the construction phase, rainfall,
the roles and responsibilities for constructing, landscape works and ordering materials:
establishing and certifying vegetated swales.
• Construction phase erosion and sediment control:
Site superintendents have the primary responsibility for Before swale construction works begin, ensure the
supervising the construction of WSUD infrastructure. area is protected from any erosion that may come
Swale designers, landscape architects and civil from upstream flows. Exposed soil surfaces within the
engineers are responsible for supporting the catchment should have erosion control measures in
superintendent at inspection and sign-off milestones. place in accordance with local government
requirements and in accordance with a recognised
A pre-start meeting with all stakeholders shown in Table
guideline such as Best Practice Erosion and Sediment
2.1 must be held to:
Control (IECA, 2008). Upstream flows should be
• explain the intention and function of the swale diverted away from the works area.
• highlight the issues and risks associated with • Rainfall: When civil works begin, stormwater can
construction and establishment damage the swale through scour or by depositing
sediment. This can result in poor drainage and can
• talk through a preferred approach for construction
reduce the function of the swale. Construction should
and establishment
take place during dry periods or diversion systems
• explain the as-constructed survey or drawings and should be put in place to isolate the swale site.
inspection and sign-off requirements.
Table 2.1: Roles and responsibilities for constructing,

establishing and certifying swales
PERSON ROLE DESCRIPTION
Swale designer Design and Swale designers supervise construction and certify the functional elements
construction of the swale after it is constructed.
troubleshooting
Landscape Design and Landscape architects design landscape plans with the swale designer and
architect landscape specify plants in collaboration with an ecologist.
Site Supervise Site superintendents are responsible for all site works to deliver the
superintendent construction construction plans. They coordinate the construction and certification
processes and issue the final overall certification.
Civil contractor Civil works and Civil contractors are responsible for all civil components of the system
installation including bulk earthworks, placement of soil and overflow infrastructure.
They are also required to ensure the swales are protected from sediment
until the landscape contractors start work.
Landscape Landscape Landscape contractors install the landscape elements such as rocks, mulch
contractor installation and and vegetation. They can also be involved in edge details and erosion
establishment protection work, particularly in areas of high amenity.
Council compliance Compliance Compliance officers ensure the swale is built and established according
officer inspections to approved civil and landscape plans for the local council.

• Landscape works: Landscape works should start as 2.4 Civil considerations and
soon as the civil works are complete. Starting specifications
landscaping immediately will limit erosion and
A number of issues must be considered for the civil
minimise sediment-laden runoff entering the swale or
works associated with swales
being conveyed as untreated runoff. Close
coordination between the civil contractor and the
2.4.1 Ordering materials
landscape contractor is required.
To ensure the civil works are efficient, it is
• Handover: Responsibility for the swale during the recommended all required materials are ordered and
handover between the civil contractor and the supplied to site before construction starts. Table 2.2
landscape contractor must be clear. Responsibility for summarises the range of materials needed and issues
any remedial works if the swale is damaged should be associated with their supply.
explicit. Refer to Section 2.12.2 for guidance on
rectification.
• Ordering materials: All required materials should be

ordered and supplied to site before construction
starts. See Section 2.4.1 for details on the necessary
materials.
Table 2.2: Ordering materials and timing
MATERIAL ITEMS POTENTIAL TIMING OF SUPPLY
SWALES
Overflow pit and Standard pit and grate sizes are readily available. 2–3 days
grate
Non-standard pit and grates need to be custom-made 5+ days
either on-site or off-site.
Outlet pipe Standard pipe. 2–3 days
Standard box culvert. 2–3 days
Non-standard or large pipes or culverts. 5+ days
Topsoil If soil is required to be imported to the site. 1–2 days

2.4.2 Tolerances
Achieving correct tolerances is a critical part of
constructing swales. Table 2.3 summarises issues to
consider when constructing each element of swales.
The table also details construction tolerances that
should be adopted. An as-constructed survey should
be collected and placed on the as-constructed drawings
for sign-off, certification and compliance.
Table 2.3: Swale tolerances
SWALE ELEMENT CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS TOLERANCE METHOD

OF SURVEY
SWALES
Hydraulic Hydraulic structures control the movement of ± 25 mm Survey

structures stormwater through the swales. Construction of
(overflow pit, pipe) hydraulic structures is important to ensure design
levels are achieved. The tolerances apply to:
- the overflow pit crest level
- the outlet pipe invert levels upstream and

downstream
- the crest of any check dams, where included in the

design
Surface levels Ensuring the surface of a swale meets the design level ± 25 mm Dumpy level or laser
and grades is critical. If the swale is located adjacent for construction
to a road, then the relative levels to kerbs must be
Survey for
achieved.
as-constructed.
2.4.3 Flush kerbs

If stormwater is evenly distributed, it enters a swale Figure 2.2: Kerb design to promote distributed
as a shallow, sheet flow of water. This maximises the stormwater flows into swales
stormwater’s contact with vegetation, particularly on
the batter, helping sedimentation. The swale batter is
often referred to as a ‘buffer’. Buffers require dense
vegetation and shallow, distributed sheet flows to
avoid erosion. Buffers provide good pre-treatment by
removing coarse sediment before flows are conveyed
along the swale.
Flush kerbs or kerbs with regular breaks help to create

evenly distributed flows across the buffer surface
(Figure 2 2). Kerb breaks should be generally aligned
with the direction of flow to direct the flow into the
swale and avoid deposition of sediment.

Because buffers are effective at removing sediments, it 2.5 Landscape considerations
is important to allow space for sediment to accumulate. and specifications
The surface of a swale, or the top of the vegetation,
Swales can use a variety of vegetation including turf,
must be set down from the road surface at the start of
sedges and tufted grasses. Vegetation is critical for
the buffer. Figure 2 3 shows sediment accumulating on a
removing pollutants and good quality, correctly installed
street surface where the vegetation is higher than the
topsoil is critical to allow vegetation to flourish.
road. To avoid this accumulation, a tapered edge that
sets the top of the vegetation 60 mm below edge of
2.5.1 Topsoil specification and
pavement should be applied to flush kerbs. The finished
topsoil surface of the swale should be approximately
installation
100 mm below the edge of pavement level. This allows Soil should optimise nutrients and deliver water to
for vegetation and sediments to accumulate from any plants. When constructing swales, strip and stockpile
trafficable surface. When bulking out the swale, provide topsoil for reuse. The quality of local topsoil should be
an allowance for 200–300 mm of topsoil and the 100 mm tested for its suitability. Remediation may be necessary
setdown to the topsoil. to improve the soil’s quality and to suit the intended
plant species. Soils must be free from weed banks
Figure 2.3: Flush kerb without set-down shows because labour-intensive weeding can incur large costs
sediment accumulation on the road and flush kerb in the establishment phase of the swale. On some sites
with 60 mm set-down allows sediment to flow into topsoils will need to be imported.
the vegetated area. Topsoil must tested by a National Association of Testing
Authorities (NATA) accredited laboratory in accordance
with AS 4419 — Soils for landscaping and garden use
(2003). If the proposed topsoil has high salt levels,
extremely low levels of carbon (<5%), or any other
extreme that may retard plant growth, it should be
rejected. The testing will identify any amelioration
requirements. The results of the topsoil test must be
provided to the site superintendent and swale designer
before the topsoil is installed.
2.5.1.1 AMENDMENT AND TREATMENTS

Amending the topsoil to meet the specifications will be
guided by a laboratory and may involve adding fertiliser,
gypsum or organics to the soil.
2.5.1.2 INSTALLATION AND DEPTH

Installing topsoils should follow environmental best
practices and include:
• preparing soil survey reports including maps and test

results at the design phase
• stripping and stockpiling existing site topsoils before

civil works start
• deep ripping of subsoils using a non-inversion plough
• re-application of stockpiled topsoils and, if necessary,

remedial treatments to suit the intended plant species
• adding imported topsoils where necessary certified to

AS 4419-2003.

The following minimum topsoil depths are required: when specified plants are unavailable can be
problematic. If a change in species is necessary,
• 150 mm for turf species
confirm any changes with the designers and document
• 300 mm for groundcovers and small shrubs the change in the as-constructed drawings. Ideally,
plant availability should be discussed at the site
• 450 mm for large shrubs
inception meeting.
• 600 mm for trees. For large orders, it is recommended that periodic
inspection of the plant stock at the nursery is
2.5.2 Plant types and density undertaken to ensure the plants will be ready when
The guidance provided in this section refers to sedges required. Consider:
and grasses, not turf. • making it explicit at the time of ordering the plants
Work is ongoing in determining plant species that are that periodic inspections of plants will be required
most suited to stormwater management infrastructure.
• checking that plants are being grown in clean, weed-
Species need to be reliable through periods of both wet
and pest-free conditions
and dry, while also providing good root structure and
landscape amenity. For vegetated swales it is important • checking the roots of plants for fresh white roots, a
that the selected species are resistant to the flow sign of healthy and active growth (avoid root-bound
velocities expected in the swale. These characteristics plants)
should be considered as part of the design. These
• ensuring that plants have a ‘hardening off’ phase
guidelines do not specifically detail species selection.
before delivery and that they are not taken directly
The WSUD Technical Guidelines for South East
from a shade house to the construction site.
Queensland (SEQHWP, 2006) and the local authority
should be consulted for more detail. 2.5.3.1 TIMING
It is important to use a relatively high density and Plant availability varies considerably in different regions
diversity of species. This ensures a higher likelihood of and at different times of year. Sufficient time must be
successful establishment and quickly delivers a dense, given to order plants. Up to six months lead-time may be
mature planting, managing any potential weed issues. required to ensure appropriate species are available. If
High density planting is particularly important in provenance plant stocks, or plants originating from a
vegetated swales to avoid preferential flow paths and specific region or location, are required, up to 18 months
scour of deposited sediments. The local authority should lead-time may be necessary to collect seeds and
be consulted for plant species and densities for swales. propagate the plants.
The following is recommended as a minimum: Certain species are very difficult or slow to propagate,
• planting density of 6–10 plants/m 2 with some species only producing one batch of seedlings
per year. Check these issues with a knowledgeable
• two species per swale. nursery to avoid last minute substitutions due to species
If the design does not allow for these specifications, not being available at the time of delivery.
consult the landscape designers. 2.5.3.2 MATURITY
Plant stock must be mature, sun-hardened and contain a
2.5.3 Plant procurement fully established root ball that does not crumble when
The guidance provided in this section refers to sedges removed from its container (Figure 2 4). Ideally, the
and grasses, not turf. plants will be, on average, 300–500 mm high and not less
than 200 mm. Height is important to enable plants to
Vegetation used in swales is typically tubestock
cope with inundation and not to be buried in mulch.
available from wholesale nurseries. Specialist nurseries
are familiar with supplying plants for WSUD projects.
Purchasing from specialist suppliers increases the
chances of obtaining the right plants in the correct
condition. Availability varies between nurseries and is
influenced by the time of year. Substituting species

Figure 2.4: Example of suitable mature tubestock Tubestock plants are usually supplied in a plastic
container with dimensions of 70–150 mm high and 50–70
mm wide. However, there is a large variation in tubestock
container size and price. A container with dimensions of
at least 90 x 50 x 50 mm is recommended. These
containers can come in a number of forms:
• viro tubes: 50 x 90 mm with a minimum plant height of

300 mm
• 50 mm tubes: 50 x 75–90 mm with a minimum plant

height of 300 mm
• native tubes: 50 x 125 mm with a minimum plant height

of 300 mm.
Seedling pots of 20 mm should be avoided for swales.

These seedlings are considered to be relatively
immature and may result in high loss rates and patchy
growth.
2.5.4 Mulching
Mulching retains moisture around plants and provides
organic matter to assist with establishing plants.
Mulching must occur before planting.
There are a number of preferred mulches:
• Organic friable mulches degrade quickly, within six

months. Fine sugar cane or tea tree mulch are
examples of organic friable mulches. To avoid the
Both immature plants and plants that are too old can mulch being washed away during storms and
be difficult to establish. While some species benefit accumulating in downstream hydraulic structures or
from additional growing time permitting further rhizome waterways, it should be pinned down with an organic
development, many species of sedges and other swale weed mat, such as loose-weave jute, pinned at no more
plants will struggle to develop if they are old and pot- than 500 mm centres.
bound. These plants will not establish well and may • Organic matting can be used as a mulch in some cases,
remain stunted, be susceptible to predators and provided it is lightweight and degrades in less than six
disease, and fail to provide the cover required for months.
optimal filtration.
• Inorganic mulch that does not float, such as gravel or
Key things to look for in plant stock include:
stone, can also be used. Care must be taken with
• signs of pests and disease inorganic mulch to ensure that it does not inhibit plant
growth. For example, during summer gravel and stones
• signs of nutrient deficiency (i.e. yellow wilting leaves)
can heat up and kill tubestock. Large stones can inhibit
• root-bound plants the growth and spread of plants. River stone should
only be used in high profile landscapes and locations.
• signs of new growth and general vigour
The thickness of mulch should be limited to 50–75 mm to
• weeds ensure new vegetation shoots are not hindered. Mulch
• clear labelling. should be kept clear of plant stems by approximately 50
mm. The type and depth of mulch should be on the design
drawings or included in specifications. If not, the
designer should be consulted.

Mulches to avoid are: 2.5.6 Watering
• long-lasting organic mulches such as tanbark or other Time of year and the climate will determine the
hardwood frequency of watering. However, during establishment
regular watering is essential for plants. To successfully
• organic mulch that is likely to contain weed seeds establish plants, the frequency of watering is dependent
• heavy-duty matting such as 800 gsm jute mat on rainfall, the maturity of the planting stock and the
water-holding capacity of the soil. A watering program
• inorganic matting such as filter cloth should be established to suit the site conditions.
The following guidance provides a starting point for
• river stone except in high profile locations due to the
the irrigation program:
following reasons:
- it is extracted from natural watercourses Week 1–6 5 waterings per week
- makes maintenence difficult (hard to replant, Week 6–10 3 waterings per week
voids fill with sediment).
Week 11–15 2 waterings per week
2.5.5 Planting procedure In the absence of rain, it is recommended that each

plant receives 2.5–5.0 litres of water per week during
The guidance provided in this section refers to sedges
the first six weeks (40 mm of watering per week
and grasses, not turf.
during establishment).
2.5.5.1 PLANT SET-OUT
After this initial four-month period, watering may still be
Plant set-out is a critical part of landscaping and must
required, particularly during the first winter or dry
be confirmed with the swale designer or landscape
period. Watering requirements for healthy vegetation
architect before the landscape works start. It is
can be determined by ongoing inspections.
essential to confirm the placement of species,
particularly trees or shrubs, within the swale or if
mimicking a representative vegetation community. 2.5.7 Measuring success
Planting in swales is considered ‘established’ when the
Planting areas should be measured from design
plants are robust and self-sustaining. In Queensland,
drawings and marked with stakes for ease of planting
establishment of plants typically requires 12 months to
and to reduce the risk of incorrect placement.
include one growing season. Growth and maturity should
2.5.5.2 PLANTING be recorded through three-monthly photo logs.
Plants in swales are usually planted as tubestock using Measurements of an established swale are:
either hand tools or light machinery such as an auger • greater than 90% of plants surviving and 80%
drill. Heavier equipment is not necessary as the topsoil coverage of the swale
is uncompacted. Planter holes should be twice the size
of the tubestock. Plants should be carefully removed • preferably more than one species per swale
from the tube to ensure their stems do not break from
• at least 5 plants/m2, but preferably 6–10 plants/m2
the root ball. The top of the root ball should be slightly
lower than the surface level after the soil has been firmly • an increase in plant height of at least 50% through the
placed in the planting hole and around the plant. establishment phase1
2.5.5.3 ESTABLISHING • propagation is occurring with more than 2–3 stems and
Given the critical importance of successfully through seeding
establishing plant cover in a swale as quickly as possible,
a pro-active and adaptive approach should be taken, • no weeds.
responding to any issues relating to the health of the
plants. Responses can include watering or fertilising to
deal with plant stress, weed presence or weather
patterns. Spreading seed can improve the seed bank and
increase plant cover in bare areas.
More than 90% of plants must survive, otherwise

replanting will be necessary.
1. This can be measured by marker stakes within the swale.

2.6 Managing sediment during the • Subdivision construction — Civil works create the
building phase landforms of a development and install the services
such as roads, water, sewerage and power. Civil works
Inflow of sediment-laden runoff can risk the successful
are followed by the landscape works that create the
establishment and long-term functioning of swales.
softscape, streetscape and parkscape features. The
Sediment can alter the drainage pathways of a swale,
risks to successful construction and establishment of
potentially causing short-circuiting or poor drainage.
swales during this phase of work are:
Large loads of sediments can also smother vegetation
resulting in poor cover, limited treatment and poor - construction activities generating large sediment
amenity. Therefore, managing erosion and sediment loads in runoff that can smother vegetation and
movement in the catchment during the construction and modify levels within the swale, impairing drainage
establishment of swales is critical and involves:
- construction traffic and other works damaging
• effective erosion and sediment control during civil the swales
construction and landscape establishment within the
- erosion of swales from a lack of protective
catchment of the swale in accordance with local
measures leaving soils exposed.
government requirements and a recognised guideline
such as Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control Importantly, all works undertaken during subdivision
(IECA 2008) construction are ‘controlled’ through a principal
contractor and site manager. This means the risks
• effective erosion and sediment control during the can be managed through guidance and supervision
building phase in accordance with local government and the implementation of appropriate erosion
requirements and sediment controls.
• placing protective measures around, and along, swales. • Building phase — When the subdivision construction
works are complete or near complete and
Section 2-102.6 describes challenges associated with development plans are sealed, the building phase
the different phases of development sites. Section 2.7 of houses or buildings can start. This phase is
describes staged construction and establishment methods. effectively ‘uncontrolled’ due to the number of
building contractors and sub-contractors. Therefore,
2.6.1 Development phases the building phase represents the greatest risk to
In the context of a large development site, delivering the successful establishment of swales (Figure 2 6).
swales and establishing vegetation can be challenging. Controlling access onto swales for traffic or deliveries
The challenges are best described against each phase in is the main challenge.
the development of a greenfield or infill development
(see Figure 2 5):
Figure 2.5: Typical phases in the creation of a development site

(amended from Leinster, 2006)
Figure 2.6: Example of building phase impact on stormwater management systems

2.7 Staged construction
and establishment methods
To overcome the challenges associated with delivering Wash down of materials, for example from tile and brick
swales during the building phase of the development cutting, is also a risk to swales, but this issue should be
site, one of the following staged construction and addressed through site erosion and sediment control
establishment methods is recommended: plans.
• Option 1: Surface protection with temporary The main response to these risks is to isolate swales
vegetation with fencing to protect the swale’s vegetation and
surface. Sacrificial vegetation, such as turf or hydroseed
• Option 2: Surface protection with permanent
with sterile grasses, can also be used to protect the
vegetation.
swale surface and provide a level of sediment control
Table 2.4 summarises the issues and considerations during a building phase. When the majority of building is
associated with each option to allow local authorities, complete, the temporary vegetation can be replaced
developers, designers and contractors to select the with permanent plantings, and collected sediment
method most suited to their site. removed.
Common issues to manage are parking for building Alternatively, the final vegetation can be planted
contractors, the location and bunding for deliveries such immediately after the civil works; however, this option
as soil, sediment from allotments and building traffic. risks damage
Table 2 4: Comparison of Staged Construction and Establishment Methods for Swales
OPTION 1: SURFACE PROTECTION WITH OPTION 2: SURFACE PROTECTION WITH

TEMPORARY VEGETATION PERMANENT VEGETATION
Description Construct the civil infrastructure associated with the Construct the civil infrastructure associated
swale including shaping topsoil. Isolate access to the with the swale including shaping of the
swale with appropriate fencing. Protect the swale topsoil. Protect the swale from erosion as
from erosion as soon as civil construction is complete soon as the civil construction is complete.
with turf or sterile grasses. Isolate access to the swale with appropriate
fencing and coordinate with the landscape
When 80–90% of the building in the catchment is
contractor to vegetate with final planting.
complete, remove any sediment build-up from the
swale and replace the temporary grasses with the final
vegetation.
Order of Follow the steps in Section 2.8 Follow the steps in Section 2.8
construction
Environmental Moderate Moderate

benefit — level of
water quality
management
during the building
phase
Landscape Low High

amenity
Advantages Fast response for erosion protection. Early establishment of vegetation.
Prevents risk of damage to final vegetation. High amenity.
Provides some sediment control during the Simple and early handover of asset.
building phase.

OPTION 1: SURFACE PROTECTION WITH OPTION 2: SURFACE PROTECTION WITH
TEMPORARY VEGETATION PERMANENT VEGETATION
Disadvantages Low amenity. Risk of damage to final vegetation.
Vegetation established after completion of building The swale surface may require reworking.
phase.
Delayed handover of asset.
Preferred
construction and
establishment
method
Streetscape
Parkland in high
profile location
Parkland in low
profile location
2.7.1 Option 1: Surface protection with - Cover the surface of the swale with temporary
temporary vegetation vegetation such as turf or hydroseed. This
vegetation will protect the integrity of the swale’s
To minimise the risk of damage and the cost of any
surface and provide for some sedimentation of
re-establishment, the functional elements of a swale can
flows over the swale.
be undertaken and temporary protective measures
installed to prevent damage to the surface and • Stage 3 Landscape Establishment: When the building
vegetation. This involves: phase is 80–90% complete, replace the temporary
vegetation with final plantings. Local erosion or
• Stage 1 Civil Works: Undertake civil construction
sediment build-up may mean that the swale’s surface
including shaping of the swale surface.
will need to be reshaped.
• Stage 2 Building Phase Protection:
As illustrated in Figure 2 -7, this approach means the
- Install sediment fences around the perimeter of the swale will be in the Building Phase Protection mode for
swale to prevent access to the surface and to up to 24 months, followed by a 12-month period of
prevent sediment from being carried into the landscape establishment.
system by overland flow.
Figure 2.7: Stages of construction associated with Option 1


The advantages of Option 1 are:
• the swale is protected during the building phase
• very little maintenance is required during building

phase.
The disadvantages of Option 1 are:
• the landscape is not established until after building is

complete and the planting will not be fully established
until 6–12 months after building phase resulting in
lower visual amenity.
2.7.2 Option 2: Surface protection

with permanent vegetation
Option 2 is essentially the same as Option 1 except final
design plantings are used. This increases the risk of
damage to the vegetation and potential reworking of the
swale surface; however, Option 2 offers a better
landscape amenity. The main aspect of protecting the
swale is to isolate vehicles and deliveries from the swale
surface.
This approach involves:
• Stage 1 Civil Works and Landscape Works: Undertake

civil construction, including shaping of the swale
surface, followed by planting the surface of the swale
with final vegetation soon after the civil works are
complete.
• Stage 2 Building Phase Protection:
- Install sediment fences around the perimeter of the

swale to prevent access to the swale’s surface and
to prevent sediment from being carried into the
system by overland flow.
- Remove any sediment accumulation within the
swales and replant the swale as required in addition
to the regular weeding.
The advantages of Option 2 are that final landscaping
can establish early.
The disadvantages of Option 2 are:
• the swale may require reworking to fix sedimentation

or damage to vegetation if the protective measures
are not effective
• maintaining protective fencing around the swale is

required during building phase.

2.8 Step-by-step sequence — Options 1 and 2
The following sections provide a step-by-step sequence for civil construction, building phase protection and
landscape establishment for the Staged Construction and Establishment Methods described in Section 2.7. Detailed
descriptions and, where available, photos are provided for each step in tabular format. It is envisaged the tables will
be laminated and used as an on-site reference during construction and establishment.
2.8.1 Stage 1 – Civil construction

The recommended civil construction sequence for the swales is summarised in Table 2.5.
Table 2.5: Civil construction step-by-step sequence — Options 1 and 2
CONSTRUCT ION STEP ACTI VI TY PHOTOS
STEP 1: Pre-start meeting A pre-start meeting with the swale designer, civil engineer, landscape architect, site
superintendent, civil contractor, landscape contractor and, where required, the
Council compliance officer to:
- explain the function of the swale
- highlight issues and risks associated with construction and establishment
- talk through a preferred construction and establishment approach for this site
- explain the as-constructed survey or drawing, inspection and sign-off

requirements.
STEP 2: Preparation Preparation for construction should occur before starting on site. Preparation
includes organising the correct equipment to achieve tolerances, sourcing materials
and assessing the risk of rainfall during construction
(refer Section 2.4).
STEP 3: Install overflow pit and outlet pipe Install the overflow pit and ensure the crest of the pit is at the design level.
The crest of the pit can then be used as a datum from which other levels within the

swale can be measured.
Construct outflow headwalls and install sections of the stormwater outlet pipe. If
the outlet pipe is below the receiving environment levels, consult the superintendent
and designers to resolve a change in the design.
Design levels and tolerances (+25 mm) must be achieved.
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STEP 4: Bulking out Undertake bulk earthworks. Swales will have at least 150 mm of topsoil applied after
earthworks (refer Section 2.5.1) and a further 100 mm set down from adjacent roads.
Design levels for the top of the bund are INCLUSIVE of this layer of topsoil and 100
mm of set down. Bulk earthworks should leave the top of the swale 250 mm below
the final surface level depending on topsoil requirements (Section 2.5.1).
STEP 5: Trimming and profiling Undertake detailed excavation, trimming and profiling of bunds, batters, sides and
base of swale, ensuring swale is free-draining and is free of debris. Ensure an
appropriate set down from the flush kerb so that the final topsoil is 100 mm below
the kerb’s edge.
If check dams are included in the design they should be installed at this step.
STEP 6: As-constructed survey Undertake an as-constructed survey of the swale at this stage, including:
- the overflow pit crest level, invert level and under-drainage connections invert and
diameter
- the outlet pipe and upstream and downstream invert levels.
Use the base of swale to illustrate that the level allows for topsoil and 100 mm set
down.
STEP 7: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off Following collection of the as-constructed survey, the site superintendent and swale
(Form A) designer will inspect the swale with the contractor, review the as-constructed survey

and take photos. If the construction meets the tolerances outlined in Section 2.4.2
and conforms with the design, Sign-Off Form A will be completed and signed and the
as-constructed survey and photos attached.
STEP 8: Install topsoil Ensure the topsoil meets the AS 4419 — Soils for landscaping and garden use. Refer
Section 2.5.1.
When appropriate topsoil is identified (onsite or supplied), install topsoil to the

designed surface level of the swale and compact it lightly. Ultimately, the surface of
the swale must be +50 mm from the design surface and free from local depressions.
STEP 9: As-constructed survey Undertake an as-constructed survey of the swale surface at four spots on the
surface for every 50 m of swale.
STEP 10: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off Following collection of the as-constructed survey, the site superintendent and swale
(Form B) designer will inspect the swale with the contractor, review the as-constructed survey
and take photos. If the construction meets the tolerances outlined in Section 2.4.2
and conforms with the design, Sign-Off Form B will be completed and signed and the
as-constructed survey and photos attached.

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2.8.2 Stage 2 — Building phase protection
Steps 11–13 provide the construction and establishment sequence for the two Building Phase options
discussed in Section 2.7:
• Option 1: Surface protection with temporary vegetation (Table 2.6)

• Option 2: Surface protection with permanent vegetation (Table 2.7).
The construction sequence should be read in combination with the Swale Construction and Establishment
Sign-Off Forms.
If landscape works are to commence immediately, without the need for building phase protection, skip
directly to Step 14.
2.8.2.1 OPTION 1
Table 2.6: Building phase protection step-by-step sequence — Option 1 Surface protection with temporary vegetation
STEP 11: Install sediment fences Immediately after installation of the topsoil, install sediment fences around
the swale to prevent sediment entering from the batters and to keep
construction vehicles off the swale.
STEP 12: Install temporary erosion works Install any temporary vegetation being used to protect the swale during the
building phase. Install turf perpendicular to the flow path. Hydroseed

mixture should incorporate an adhesive to protect it until the grasses
establish.
STEP 13: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off (Form C) If the building phase protection has been installed, Sign-Off Form C will be
PRACTICAL COMPLETION completed, signed and photos attached.
2.8.2.2 OPTION 2
Table 2.7: Building phase protection step-by-step sequence — Option 2 Surface protection with permanent vegetation
STEP 11: Install sediment fences Immediately after installation of the topsoil, install sediment fences around
the swale to prevent sediment entering from the batters and to keep
construction vehicles off the swale.
SSTEP 12: Install temporary erosion works Install design vegetation according to Stage 3, Steps 14 to 25.
STEP 13: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off (Form C) When the building phase protection is installed, Sign-Off Form C will be
PRACTICAL COMPLETION completed, signed and photos attached.

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2.8.3 Stage 3 – Landscape establishment
Once the building phase is finished, clean any accumulated sediment from the swales, re-profile the swales and
establish the landscape. The recommended landscape establishment sequence for the swales is summarised in
Table 2.8. The construction sequence should be read in combination with the Swales Construction and Establishment
Sign-Off Forms. Table 2.8 addresses both densely vegetated swales and turfed swales. If turf is used, then many of
the steps in Table 2.8 are not relevant.
Table 2.8: Landscape establishment step-by-step sequence — Options 1 and 2
CONSTRUCT ION STEP ACTIV IT Y PHOTOS (swales)
STEP 14: Pre-start and plant set-out meeting Before starting landscape preparation, hold a pre-start and plant set-out meeting
with the swale designers, site superintendent and landscape contractors. The
meeting should confirm design and planting requirements and set out the planting
to ensure the correct plants are installed in the correct locations.
STEP 15: Preparation Prepare for the landscape up to six months before starting, including ordering and
inspecting plants at the nursery, ordering and receiving organic mulch and matting
and organising a source of irrigation water (refer Section 2.5).
STEP 16: Removal of building phase protection Remove the building phase protective measures and any accumulated sediment. If
the final landscape is to be turf and the turf protection is in good health, very little

work will be required provided the designed profile and levels have not changed as a
result of sediment accumulation.
STEP 17: Re-establish swale profile Once the protective layers are removed, re-profile the surface of the soil to the
design requirements using a spreader bar. Fill in any over-excavated zones.
CONSTRUCT ION STEP ACTIV IT Y PHOTOS (swales)
STEP 18: Mulching Mulching should occur in accordance with the guidance provided in Section 2.5.4.
Create holes through the mulch for planting. Ensure the holes have 50 mm
separation from stem of the plant to the mulch.
STEP 19: Soil preparation Dig planting holes by hand and, where necessary, place the prescribed amount of
slow-release native fertiliser in the hole. Place pre-soaked wetting agents in the
hole if necessary.
STEP 20: Planting Plants should be supplied in accordance with requirements listed in Sections 2.5.2
and 2.5.3.
Plant the tubestock ensuring the root ball is covered with soil and stems are above
the soil surface. Clear away any mulch from the stem to 50 mm.
STEP 21: Inspection and sign-off (Form D) After installing the mulch and plants, the site superintendent and swale designer will
PRACTICAL COMPLETION inspect the swale with the contractor and Sign-Off Form D is completed, signed and
photos attached.

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STEP 22: Watering Water the plants according to Section 2.5.6:
If there is no rain, each plant should receive 2.5–5.0 litres per week during
establishment in the first six weeks (40 mm per week).
STEP 23: Weeding Inspect swale plants fortnightly during establishment, removing weeds by hand.
STEP 24: On-going inspection and final landscape Monitor the establishment of plants until they are robust and self-sustaining.
establishment
An established swale is measured by:
1. survival of more than 90% of plants

2. 80% coverage of swale
3. more than one species per swale
4. at least 5 plants/m2 and preferably 6–10 plants/m2

5. an increase in plant height of at least 50% measured through markers or stakes
6. propagation of more than 2–3 stems and seeding
7. no weeds.
Growth and maturity should be recorded through three-monthly photo logs for every
50 m of swale.
STEP 25: Inspection and sign-off (Form E) After plants in the swale are established (typically 12 months, less for turf), the site
superintendent and swale designer will inspect the swale and complete
Sign-Off Form E with attached photos.
2.9 Potential failure and rectification
Constructing and establishing any civil or landscape
asset requires refinement and repair of defects to
ensure compliance with the design. Table 2.9 outlines
potential construction and establishment failures or
defects that can occur and suggests actions to rectify
the problems. The table focuses on construction and
establishment defects and on functional failures that
can occur after construction. Consult the swale designer
or an external expert to confirm rectification actions if
the following failures occur.
Table 2.9: Potential failure scenarios for swales and rectification actions
DEFECT OR CAUSES RECTIFICATION

FAILURE
Damage to invert Vehicle traffic is the most common cause, creating Re-establish perimeter protection fence.
of the swale from preferential flow paths and facilitating erosion.
Re-grade swale batters and invert replacing
traffic
topsoil where required.
Mulch and replant according to the original

specification and install protective fences
where required.
Scour of swale High velocities within swales, particularly at Stabilise upslope extent of erosion.
invert stormwater outfalls.
Backfill, stabilise and re-vegetate scour.
Dissipate energy at the stormwater outfall

by installing rock protection.
Accumulation of Building in the catchment or adjacent to the swale. Remove sediment and re-vegetate. Reinstate
sediment protective fences and investigate and
resolve source of sediment.
Scour of swale Lateral concentrated surface flows entering the swale Redirect lateral flows to small, rock-lined
batters from catchments adjacent to the swale. channels that flow down batters to the swale
invert. Rectify and plant out scoured zones.

DEFECT OR CAUSES RECTIFICATION
FAILURE
Failure of plants Topsoil does not meet specifications. Review Sign-Off Form B to confirm the soil meets the
specifications outlined in Section 2.5.
Collect samples within the swale at surface, and mid-depth

(100 mm) approximately every 100 m2. Complete an analysis
on the soil and compare the results to the required
specification.
If the soil does not meet the specifications, seek advice

from the laboratory on amelioration to meet the
specifications. In-situ amelioration may be possible.
However, if it is not possible, remove and replace the soil.
Inappropriate watering during If the plants are alive, irrigate according to the
establishment of plants. recommendations in Section 2.5.
If the plants have died, mulch, replant and irrigate according

to with the recommendations in Section 2.5.
Lack of mulch or fertiliser during If the plants are alive, apply a small quantity of liquid
establishment of plants. fertiliser and mulch. If plants have died, mix compost or
organics into the top 50–100 mm of the soil, mulch and
replant.
Poor plant cover of less than five plants Review species selection in consultation with the swale
per m2. designer and select an alternative species better suited to
the site and replant.
Excessive weed cover. Remove weeds manually to protect native plants. Avoid
weed seed set by pro-actively maintaining and reducing
weed infiltration from the edges of the swale.

2.10 Certification
Certification is a major issue for the implementation
of swales. Because the systems are essentially
civil infrastructure with a landscape overlay, the
responsibility for compliance, certification and asset
handover is not well defined. Developers, designers,
contractors and local authorities have different
approaches for dealing with these issues, resulting
in confusion within the industry.
These guidelines and the Construction and

Establishment Sign-Off Forms are designed to clarify
any confusion. Table 2.10 summarises the recommended
civil and landscape certification requirements for
swales.
Table 2.10: Construction and landscape certification
CERTIFICATION WHO SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION
Civil certification Site (civil) superintendent Swale designer’s certification of functional elements
Civil engineer’s certification of structural elements
Soil supplier’s certification of topsoil
NATA-registered laboratory testing results and delivery

dockets if the swale has a bioretention component
Completed and signed Sign-Off Forms A, B and C
As-constructed survey and drawings and photo
Landscape Site (landscape) superintendent Swale designer’s or ecologist’s certification of plant species
certification
As-constructed drawings showing final species and plant
numbers
Completed and signed Sign-Off Forms D and E
2.11 Compliance
Compliance of swale construction and establishment
is a major challenge for local authorities.
The Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms

and the certification requirements outlined in Section
2.10 provide the basis for compliance. To support the
final compliance inspection and practical completion,
the following documentation is required:
• completed Construction and Establishment

Sign-Off Forms
• as-constructed survey and photos

(as per Sign-Off Form requirements)
• site superintendent certification
• swale designer certification.

Additionally, it is recommended compliance inspection is Swales may remain un-vegetated and unmanaged
undertaken at the following hold points: during this period. Sediment accumulation and
damage will occur during rainfall events and
• pre-start meeting (Step 1)
maintenance or rectification will be required.
• practical completion (on-maintenance) of civil works
(Step 13 and Sign-Off Forms A, B and C) If there will be a delay between the civil works
and landscape works, then it is recommended a
• pre-start meeting for landscape works (Step 14)
maintenance contract is established (or maintenance
• practical completion (on-maintenance) of landscape allowance is made in the civil contract) for inspection,
works (Step 21 and Sign-Off Form D) cleanout and rectification of the civil works during this
period. This could be costed as a monthly allowance or
• final inspection (off-maintenance) following landscape on a per inspection or per maintenance event basis. It
establishment (Step 25 and Sign-Off Form E). is recommended the civil contractor is responsible for
this work and the contract reflects the inspection and
maintenance requirements.
2.12 Civil and landscape contracts
2. Building phase maintenance — During the building
2.12.1 Contracts phase, sediment accumulation and damage will
To ensure all parties are aware of the certification occur. It is important regular inspections occur
requirements, the Tender and Civil and Landscape after rainfall events and that appropriate cleanout
Contracts must include: or rectification is undertaken. It is recommended a
maintenance contract is established for this purpose.
• construction and establishment specifications (see The maintenance contract could be costed as a
Sections 2.4 and 2.5) monthly allowance or on a per inspection or per
• preferred construction and establishment method maintenance event basis and the work can be
(see Section 2.7) undertaken by the civil or landscape contractor or a
maintenance contractor. Once 80–90% of the building
• Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms with is complete, the maintenance contract ceases and
the as-constructed survey and drawing requirements landscape works commence.
(see attached to this guideline with samples provided
Section 2.13)
2.13 Sign-Off Forms
• certification requirements listed in Table 2.10.
The tender and contract documents can refer to the outline the key items to be reviewed when delivering
relevant sections of this guideline. If the Construction and inspecting swales. The Sign-Off Forms follow
and Establishment Sign-Off Form requirements are not the construction methods provided in Sections 2.8.
achieved, then the contract is not fulfilled and payment The forms are to be used by contractors, construction
should be withheld. site superintendents, designers and local authority
compliance inspectors to ensure all the elements of
2.12.2 Ownership and handover the swales have been constructed in accordance with
A common problem with the construction and the design. If an item receives an ‘N’ in the ‘Satisfactory
establishment of WSUD systems is ownership and Criteria’, indicating that the element is ‘not satisfactory’,
maintenance during(1) the building phase and handover appropriate actions must be specified to rectify the
of the asset from the civil contractor to the landscape construction issue before final inspection sign-off
contractor and (2) the building phase maintenance. is given.
These issues must be considered when establishing The Sign-Off Forms form the basis of the certification
the contracts: and compliance requirements for swales. They are
1. Handover from civil contractor to landscape designed for easy incorporation into asset databases
contractor — This handover process can take months managed by Councils or private organisations such
for a number of reasons, such as separate operational as body corporates.
works approval processes for landscape design.

The following Construction and Establishment Sign-Off
Forms are provided:
• Swale Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms
• Pre-Start Meeting Sign-Off Form
• FORM A — Earthworks and Functional Structures
• FORM B — Finished Levels
• FORM C — Protective Measures
• FORM D — Landscape Installation
• FORM E — Landscape Establishment

are attached to this guideline and it is the responsibility
of the site superintendent and contractor to ensure
the most recent version of the forms are being used.
The following pages provide samples of the
Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms
that are relevant at the time of writing this guideline.

SWALE CONSTRUCTION AND ESTABLISHMENT SIGN-OFF FORMS
Asset I.D. DA No.
System location:
Area: Catchment Area (ha): Swale Length/Width (m):
Civil drawing no.
Landscape drawing no.
ROLE/STAKEHOLDER COMPANY CONTACT NAME CONTACT DETAILS
Developer
Site superintendent (civil)
Site superintendent
(landscape)
Bioretention designer
Civil engineer
Landscape architect
Civil contractor
Landscape contractor
Council compliance officer
CHECKLIST OF SIGN-OFF FORMS
NAME OF
SIGN-OFF FORM DATE COMPLETED SIGNATORY & ROLE SIGNATURE
(E . G . SUPERINTENDENT)
Pre-Start Meeting
Form A — Earthworks &

Functional Structures
Form B — Finished Levels
Form C — Protective
Measures
Form D — Landscape
Installation
Form E — Landscape
Establishment

PRE-START MEETING
List pre-start meeting attendees who are to sign indicating they have attended the meeting and understand the design intent,
construction and establishment process.
Location
Date
ROLE/STAKEHOLDER COMPANY CONTACT NAME SIGN
Developer
Site
superintendent(landscape)
Swale designer
Civil engineer
Landscape architect
Civil contractor
Other
Other
Other
Comments (attach and refer to additional pages if necessary)
Actions (attach and refer to additional pages if necessary)

FORM A — EARTHWORKS AND FUNCTIONAL (HYDRAULIC) STRUCTURES
Purpose: To ensure earthworks bulking out, trimming and profiling together with the key levels of functional (hydraulic)
structures are in accordance with design drawings and specifications. The earthworks and structures dictate the movement of
stormwater through the swale and are a critical element in its function.
ACTION (IF
ITEMS CHECKED SATISFACTORY INITIAL
UNSATISFACTORY)
As constructed survey completed and

attached to this form
Photos taken and attached to this form
Set-out of swale is correct
Base levels are at correct elevation

(±50 mm)
Overflow pit is correct size and crest

and invert is at correct level (±25 mm)
Outlet pipe invert levels are correct

(upstream and downstream) (±25 mm)
Outlet pipe is free draining
Check dams installed

(where required by design)
Bunds and embankments surrounding the

swale are at correct levels or above
HOLD POINT: Superintendent AND swale designer inspection and sign-off before proceeding.
NB: As constructed survey and drawings and photos attached.
Signed by superintendent: Signed by bioretention designer:
Print name: Print name:
Date: Date:

FORM B — FINISHED LEVELS
Purpose: To ensure finished levels of swale surface and batters are correct and meet the design.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Landscaping topsoil applied to achieve

design levels
As-constructed survey of swale

completed
Final constructed levels are consistent

with design levels
Appropriate set down from flush kerb

entries (where appropriate)
Smooth surface free of debris and local

depressions
NB: As constructed survey or drawings and photos attached.
Date: Date:

FORM C — PROTECTIVE MEASURES
Purpose: To ensure the swale is protected during establishment
Protection option adopted (Option 1 or 2)
OPTION 1 — SURFACE PROTECTION ACTION (IF

CHECKED SATISFACTORY INITIAL
WITH TEMPORARY VEGETATION UNSATISFACTORY)
Continuous sediment fences installed

around perimeter of swale
Where landscape works are not to

commence immediately, then
appropriate erosion protection measures
in place (e.g. turf)
Turf (where appropriate) is laid

perpendicular to flow paths
Hydroseed has additive for immediate

protection and has adequate cover
OPTION 2 — SURFACE PROTECTION ACTION (IF

WITH PERMANENT VEGETATION UNSATISFACTORY)
Continuous sediment fences installed

around perimeter of swale
NB: Photos attached.
Date: Date:

FORM D — LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION
Purpose: To ensure the correct plants are supplied, installed and established.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Correct mulch has been supplied
Mulch applied to correct depth and

secured
Supplied plants are correct species
Supplied plants are in correct pot sizes

and maturity (300 mm min)
Plants have been installed at correct

planting density (min 6 plants/m2)
As constructed drawings marked up with

final plant species and densities
Mulch is clear of plant stems by

approximately 50 mm
NB: As constructed drawings and photos attached.
Date: Date:

FORM E — LANDSCAPE ESTABLISHMENT
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
PLANT ESTABLISHMENT
Weeds being removed as required
Watering occurring as required
Replanting occurred as required to

replace failed plants
Plants successfully established plants

propagation is occurring.
Measure of successful establishment
1. Survivorship greater than 90%.
2. Preferably more than one species

per macrophyte zone.
3. At least 5 plants/m2
(preferably 6–10 plants/m2).
4. Increase in plant height of at least

50%. This can be measured through
the use of marker or stakes through
the swale
5. Propagation is occurring
(more than 2–3 stems, seeding).
6. No weeds.
7. Growth and maturity should be

recorded through three-monthly
photo logs every 500 m2.
HOLD POINT: Superintendent AND swale designer inspection and sign-off.
Date: Date:

THREE BIORETENTION SYSTEMS
3.1 Bioretention Systems
Bioretention systems treat stormwater by filtering • Transition and drainage layers: Under the filter
runoff through densely planted vegetation and media, a ‘transition layer’ of coarse sand is used to
percolating the runoff through a filter media, such as prevent the filter media moving into the drainage layer
loamy sand. As the water is percolated through the soil, and the perforated under-drains. The transition layer
pollutants are captured by fine filtration, adsorption and is typically 100 mm deep. The ‘drainage layer’ is made
biological uptake. Figure 3.1 shows that bioretention up of fine aggregate (2–4 mm) and is typically 200 mm
systems have a number of elements: deep. The drainage layer collects treated water from
the base of the bioretention system and delivers it
• Extended detention: When stormwater enters the
into the perforated under-drains. The under-drains
bioretention system, it temporarily ponds to a depth
are perforated and typically slotted PVC (preferred)
of 200– 400 mm over the surface of the filter media.
or ag-pipe.
This ponding depth, or the ‘extended detention’, is
created by raised field inlet pits (overflow pits). • Hydraulic structures (overflow pit): During flood
Extended detention helps to manage flow velocities events that are ‘above design’ of the bioretention
over the surface of the filter media as well as system, stormwater flows are conveyed through
increasing the overall volume of stormwater runoff overflow pits or bypass paths rather than over the
that can be treated by the bioretention system. filter media. Hydraulic structures protect the surface
of the filter media from high-flow velocities that can
• Filter media: The layer of ‘filter media’ provides
dislodge collected pollutants or scour vegetation.
the most treatment of the pollutants through
fine filtration and supporting the vegetation.
The vegetation improves filtration, keeps the filter
media porous, provides substrate for biofilm to form
and takes up some nutrients and pollutants. The filter
media should be deep enough to support vegetation.
The typical depth for filter media is between
600–1000 mm with a minimum depth of 400 mm.
The surface of the filter media is generally flat.
Figure 3.1: Typical cross-section through a bioretention system
Vegetation
Overflow grate Bund/Embankment

• Vegetation: Vegetation is critical for bioretention Including a saturated zone in the base of bioretention
function. It supports treatment of stormwater by systems is a new development in design. Experimental
providing a substrate layer for biofilm growth, helps to trials conducted by the Facility for Advancing Water
transport oxygen to the soil and enhances microbial Biofiltration (FAWB) show benefits for plants and for
communities that transform pollutants. The roots of removing nitrogen. By using a saturated zone, soil
the vegetation continuously break up the surface of moisture can be maintained to sustain vegetation for a
the filter media, which helps to prevent the surface number of months without rainfall or stormwater inflow.
from clogging. Wind agitating the vegetation can also Figure 3.2 shows that saturated zones are a relatively
help to break up the surface. Vegetation should cover simple modification to standard bioretention designs by:
the surface of the filter media. The type of vegetation
• incorporating an impervious liner to ensure the system
used must be able to withstand minor and major
holds water
runoff, followed by dry periods. It must also be dense
enough to prevent preferred flow paths, scour and • amending the hydraulic structures at the outlet to
re-suspension of deposited sediments. allow 400–500 mm ponding in the base
Bioretention systems can be installed at various scales, • using coarse gravel (10–20 mm) mixed with a source of
for example, as planter boxes, in streetscapes carbon (straw and hardwood chips) in the base of the
integrated with traffic calming measures, in suburban saturated zone to support the removal of nitrogen
parks, and in regional retarding basins.
• ensuring the base of the system is flat.
Figure 3.2: Typical cross-section through a bioretention system with a saturated zone
Vegetation
Bund/Embankment
Overflow grate

3.2 Roles and Responsibilities A pre-start meeting with all the stakeholders identified
Bioretention systems are relatively new to the in Table 3.1 must be held to:
construction industry. Poorly constructed systems can • explain the design intent and function of the
lead to expensive retrofits and delayed handovers. bioretention system
Contractors need to be supported by a collaborative
partnership between designers (bioretention designers, • highlight issues and risks associated with construction
landscape architects and civil engineers) and site and establishment
superintendents. Table 3.1 summarises the recommended • talk through the preferred construction and
roles and responsibilities for constructing, establishing establishment approach
and certifying bioretention systems.
• explain the as-constructed survey or drawing,
Site superintendents have the primary responsibility
for supervising the construction of WSUD. Bioretention
designers, landscape architects and civil engineers
should support site superintendents at inspection
and sign-off milestones.
Table 3.1: Roles and responsibilities for bioretention system construction and establishment
Bioretention Design and The bioretention designer designs the bioretention system. They should support
designer construction the superintendent by supervising construction works and providing certification
troubleshooting of the functional elements of the constructed system. This certification forms the
basis of the superintendent’s overall certification.
Landscape Design and The landscape architect develops landscape plans in association with the
architect landscape bioretention designer, providing plant specifications in collaboration with an
troubleshooting ecologist.
Civil engineer Design of civil The civil engineer designs the civil works related to the bioretention system such
components as edge details, overflow pits, pipe work and structural elements.
Site Supervision of The site superintendent is responsible for all site works associated with delivering
superintendent construction the construction plans. The site superintendent coordinates the construction and
certification processes and issues the overall final certification of the
bioretention systems.
Civil contractor Civil works and The civil contractor is responsible for all civil components of the system — bulk
installation earthworks, placement of overflow infrastructure, under-drainage and placement
of filter media. In some situations, the civil contractor may leave the installation
of bioretention filter media to the landscape contractor. The civil contractor is
also required to ensure the bioretention systems are protected from sediment
until the landscape contractors start work.
Supplier of Supply of The supplier of the bioretention media is responsible for testing, supplying and
bioretention bioretention certifying the bioretention media for each layer of the system. The supplier will
media media co-ordinate with the civil or landscape contractor and site superintendent to
ensure appropriate media is delivered and installed.
Landscape Landscape The landscape contractor installs mulch, plants vegetation and may undertake
contractor installation and some edge details and inlet erosion protection work in areas of high amenity. In
establishment some cases the landscape contractor may also install the bioretention media and
protective measures.
Local government Compliance The compliance officer represents the interests of the local authority to ensure
compliance officer inspections the system is built and established according to approved civil works and
landscape plans.

3.3 Timing Civil works should progress quickly to stabilise and
The timing of civil and landscape works for bioretention protect the bioretention system against storm events.
systems must be carefully planned to ensure the This requires all materials to be ordered and delivered
construction and establishment process, and the to the site (Section 3.4.1) and protective measures
downstream waterways, are not impacted by installed before construction starts (Section 3.7).
stormwater and sediment. This requires consideration • Landscape works: Landscape works and the placement
of the following: of batters for bioretention systems should start as
• Construction phase erosion and sediment control: soon as possible after the civil works are complete.
Before the construction works begin, ensure the area Section 3.6.2 outlines the timing for delivery of
is stabilised and appropriate erosion and sediment landscape materials. This limits the risk of erosion and
control is present in the catchment. Erosion and sediment-laden runoff entering the system. Close
sediment control (ESC) measures must be in place in coordination between the civil contractor and the
accordance with local government requirements and a landscape contractor is required. The responsibility
recognised guideline such as Best Practice Erosion for the bioretention system site during handover
and Sediment Control (IECA, 2008) and upstream between the civil works and the landscape works must
flows diverted away from the works area. The civil be clear. Responsibility for any remedial works if the
works contractor and site superintendent should bioretention system is damaged should be explicit.
consider a number of things:
Section 3.7 discusses further the protection of
- A construction phase sedimentation basin bioretention systems during the building phase.
maintained upslope of the bioretention system may
give additional protection if effective erosion
control is not achieved on exposed soil surfaces.
3.4 Civil considerations and
specifications
- The site must comply with erosion control standards
The issues that must be considered for the civil works
when construction phase sediment basins are
associated with bioretention systems are:
decommissioned or transformed into bioretention
systems or other stormwater management devices. • ordering materials
- ESC measures downslope of bioretention systems • hydraulic structures

must be operational during construction of
bioretention systems. The ESC measures must • bioretention system liners
remain in place until the bioretention systems are
• under-drainage
stabilised against soil erosion.
• Rainfall: When the civil works begin, stormwater • installation and compaction
inflows can cause irreparable damage to bioretention
• construction issues with large bioretention systems
systems. If it rains when the drainage, transition or
filter media layers are partially installed, sediment- • considering services
laden runoff can enter the system. If this occurs, the
• coarse sediment forebays
sediment, and potentially the installed bioretention
layers, must be removed. Therefore, the timing of • maintenance access.
civil works must be planned to protect the filter media
from any stormwater inflows during construction.
The civil contractor and site superintendent should
target a suitably dry period for construction or have
a diversion system in place to isolate the site.
Approximate construction periods are:
- small bioretention systems of <100m2 : 1–2 days

- large bioretention systems of >100m2 : up to 5 days
varying between projects.

3.4.1 Ordering materials 3.4.2 Tolerances
To ensure civil construction is efficient, it is Achieving the correct tolerances is a critical part of
recommended that all materials are ordered and constructing bioretention systems. Table 3.3 and Figure
delivered to the site before construction starts. Table 3.3 summarise the construction considerations for each
3.2 summarises the materials required for construction element of a typical bioretention system, together with
of bioretention systems. Issues that may be associated construction tolerances. The as-constructed survey
with supply are also highlighted. The transition layer and must be collected as shown in Table 3.3 and placed on as-
the filter media require the greatest lead-time because constructed drawings of the bioretention system for
of laboratory testing and quality assurance sign-off, certification and compliance.
requirements. These materials should be ordered within
a week of the contract being awarded and delivered to
site at least 10 working days before construction is due
to commence.
Table 3.2: Ordering materials and timing of delivery
MATERIAL ITEMS TIMING OF SUPPLY
Overflow pit and Standard pit and grate sizes are readily available. 2–3 days
grate
Non-standard pit and grates must be custom-made either 5+ days
on-site or off-site. Custom grates are made off- site.
Outlet pipe Standard pipe. 2–3 days
Standard box culvert. 2–3 days
Non-standard or large pipes or culverts. 5+ days
Liner Filter cloth in most cases with pegs or pins to secure. 1–2 days
Filter cloth with sealant where required. 2+ days
Under-drains Slotted rigid pipes (i.e. PVC) or ag-pipe and end caps for 2 days
clean out (refer to Section 3.4.5 for details).
Drainage layer 2–4 mm clean or washed aggregate (refer to Section 3.5.3 2–5 days to confirm correct material
for details). with superintendent and engineers.
2 days to supply.
Transition layer Coarse sand (refer to Section 3.5.2 for details) Plan for selection and supply of this
material at least 10 days* before
construction:
- 5+ days to complete necessary

laboratory testing (to be completed by
supplier)
- 2 days to confirm correct material

with superintendent and engineers
- 2 days to supply.

MATERIAL ITEMS TIMING OF SUPPLY
Filter media Bioretention filter media material (refer to Section 3.5.1 for Plan for selection and supply of this
details). material at least 10 days* before
construction:
- 5+ days to complete necessary

laboratory testing (to be completed by
supplier)
- 2 days to confirm correct material

with superintendent and engineers
- 2 days to supply.
Filter cloth liner, Filter cloth liner, topsoil and turf to protect the surface of 2 days
topsoil and turf the bioretention system during building phase and to
protect batters until landscape works are complete.
Sediment fence Sediment fence contractors. 2–3 days
* If coarse sand or filter media does not comply with the specifications,
alternative materials will need to be sourced, which will delay the supply
of material by more than 10 days.
Table 3.3: Bioretention system tolerances
BIORETENTION CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS TOLERANCE METHOD OF

ELEMENT SURVEY
Hydraulic Hydraulic structures in bioretention systems control the + 25 mm Survey*

structures movement of stormwater through the system. The
(overflow pit, pipe construction of these structures must ensure the design
Where system
and weirs) levels are achieved. The tolerance given applies to:
installed in
- inlet pipes streetscape then
- overflow pit crest level + 15 mm
- under-drainage connections to overflow pit
- outlet pipe invert levels (upstream and downstream)
- weirs.
Under-drains To freely drain the base of bioretention systems, the under- + 25 mm Dumpy level or
drains must be sloped towards the outlet pit at a grade of laser
0.5% in most cases. Installation of the under-drains should
meet the recommended tolerance to ensure this grade is
achieved.
Earthworks (base To enable the perforated under-drainage pipes to drain + 50 mm Survey*

of bioretention) freely, the base of the trench should be sloped towards the
outlet pit (min. 0.5% longitudinal grade). Additionally,
ensuring the base of the filtration trench is free from
localised depressions is important. This means earthworks’
bulking and trimming needs to be carefully undertaken.

BIORETENTION CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS TOLERANCE METHOD OF
ELEMENT SURVEY
Drainage and The depth of the drainage layer should ensure at least 50 + 25 mm Dumpy level
transition layers mm of aggregate cover over the under-drainage. The depth or laser
of the transition layer should ensure that 100 mm of coarse
sand covers the aggregate.
Surface level The surface of the bioretention filter media must be free + 25 mm Dumpy level or
(filter media from localised depressions to ensure even distribution of laser for
+ 40 mm for
surface) stormwater flows across the surface and to prevent construction
systems greater
localised ponding. Compaction should be light and even
than 300 m2 Survey for as-
across the surface.
provided the constructed*
Achieving a flat surface on large bioretention systems can ‘average’ extended
be challenging so a separate tolerance is provided. detention depth is
within 25 mm of the
design requirement
Embankments and Embankments or bunds around bioretention systems hold - 25 mm Survey for as-
bunds stormwater within the extended detention during rainfall. If constructed*
+50 mm
required, they force runoff from larger rainfall into the
hydraulic structures. Therefore, the crest level on the It is preferable for
embankments or bunds is important. the bund to be
higher than lower.
* Land or engineering survey by qualified surveyor.
Figure 3.3: Typical cross-section through bioretention system with construction

tolerances and method of survey
Embankments and bunds
+/- 50mm by survey
Under-drains
+/- 25mm by dumpy
level or laser

3.4.3 Hydraulic structures Figure 3.4:Filter cloth liner around the perimeter and
Correct hydraulic function is critical for successful over the bunds of bioretention systems reinforces the
bioretention systems. Most bioretention system edges and base
hydraulic structures are relatively simple. However, the
fine tolerances required can be easily overlooked and
this can have a dramatic effect on bioretention function.
All structures must be constructed in accordance with
the design. Any potential changes to the structures must
be confirmed in writing with the bioretention designers
before construction. Once constructed, the hydraulic
structures should be surveyed and reviewed by the
designers before finer shaping earthworks are
undertaken.
Even very large bioretention systems require very fine

tolerances (<25 mm) for the hydraulic structures. Table
3.4 summarises the hydraulic structures, the preferred
designs and the construction requirements. If the
proposed design is missing any of the hydraulic
structures, or varies from the descriptions provided in
the table, the designer should be consulted for guidance.
The outlet structure of the bioretention systems must

be free draining. There can be no backwatering or
ponding within the outlet pit and pipe. To ensure free placed over the filter cloth to a depth of 200–300 mm
drainage, it is critical that: (refer Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2).
• the outlet pipe invert levels are above the receiving Where the system is bounded by an embankment, the
waterway or pipe system filter cloth should extend over the embankment for
• the overflow pit level is above the receiving reinforcement (see Figure 3.4).
waterway or pipe system 3.4.4.2 IMPERMEABLE LINER
• the under-drainage levels are above the level of the An impermeable liner will be required if:
overflow pit and outlet pipe, for conventional
• in-situ soils are unconsolidated, sodic, saline or
bioretention systems without saturated zones.
dispersive, or there is shallow groundwater
These requirements should be considered part of the
• the bioretention system includes a saturated zone
design. However, if there are concerns about outlet
in the base
pipes, overflow pits or under-drainage levels during
• the bioretention system is close to structures or
construction, the system will need to be redesigned in
buildings.
collaboration with the designers.
A site and soil evaluation undertaken as part of the
3.4.4 Bioretention system liners design process will establish the requirements for
impermeable liners with details provided on the design
3.4.4.1 PERMEABLE LINERS FOR CONVENTIONAL
drawings. Liner options include geosynthetic bentonite
BIORETENTION SYSTEMS
clay liners or high-density poly ethylene (HDPE) liners.
Most bioretention systems should be lined with a
The liners must be sealed in accordance with product
permeable filter cloth. The filter cloth defines the edge
specifications to ensure the system is watertight and
of the system and secures and reinforces the base of the
appropriately keyed into the batters and embankments.
system. The filter cloth is ‘keyed’ into the batters of the
Consideration must be given to protrusions through the
system. It is laid underneath the topsoil on the bund
liners such as outlet pipes. Testing and certification of
batter slope to a distance of at least 500 mm beyond the
liners must be obtained stating the liner has been
top of the system sides (i.e. beyond the filter media). The
installed in accordance with the product specifications
filter cloth is pinned to the in-situ soil. Topsoil should be
and is watertight.

Table 3.4: Bioretention hydraulic structures
HYDRAULIC DESCRIPTION DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS

STRUCTURE
Under-drainage Under-drainage pipes collect treated stormwater Refer to Section 3.4.5

from the drainage layer (aggregate) at the base of
the bioretention system and convey it to the
overflow pit.
Outlet overflow The outlet overflow pit collects flows above the Overflow pit requirements:
pit filtration rate of the filter media up to the ‘design’ - concrete construction
event, typically a minor storm. The outlet overflow
- letter box or dome grate (not flush grate)
pit transfers flows to an outlet pipe that is
- crest level typically 100–300 mm above the
connected to the receiving systems.
surface of the filter media and 300 mm+ below
the high flow bypass weir level or surcharge point
- under-drainage pipes must be sealed into the
overflow pit.
Outlet pipes Outlet pipes transfer flows from the overflow pit to If the outlet pipe contains water or is
the receiving systems and are sized to convey the ‘backwatered’ during construction, consult with
amount of water from the design event. Outlet the bioretention system designers.
pipes must be free draining and include a seepage
Rock protection may be required at the outfall of
collar.
the pipe. Seepage collars around pipes required.
High-flow weir Where required, the high-flow weir conveys water High-flow weirs need to operate under high-flow
from ‘above design’ events, which in some instances conditions requiring:
can be major storms. - a mass concrete weir crest, typically 500 mm
deep with reinforcing
- grouted rock protection on both sides of the
crest to at least the base of the batters
- concrete and rock protection extending up the
batters and into bunds or batters at the ends of
the weir to avoid scouring.
Drainage layer 2–4 mm clean or washed aggregate (refer to 2–5 days to confirm correct material with
Section 3.5.3 for details). superintendent and engineers.
2 days to supply.
Transition layer Coarse sand (refer to Section 3.5.2 for details) Plan for selection and supply of this material at
least 10 days* before construction:
- 5+ days to complete necessary laboratory

testing (to be completed by supplier)
- 2 days to confirm correct material with
superintendent and engineers
- 2 days to supply.

3.4.4.3 NO LINERS (OPEN BASE) the slots in the pipe must not greater than 2 mm. This
If in-situ soils are sandy, treated water at the base of the specification is consistent with the requirements of
bioretention system may be allowed to infiltrate the AS2439 Part 1 (Australian Standards, 2007). This issue
sands. In these cases, filter cloths should only line the should be discussed with the supplier when sourcing
sides and batters of the bioretention system in order to the under-drainage pipes. To ensure the correct size,
define the edge of the system. test the slot using a 20 cent coin. If the coin falls
through the slot easily, the slot is too large.
3.4.5 Under-drainage • The maximum spacing of under-drains for small
Under-drainage pipes collect treated stormwater from bioretention systems of less than < 100 m2 is 1.5m
the drainage layer (aggregate) at the base of the from centre to centre. Small bioretention systems
bioretention system and convey flows to the overflow are used in streetscapes and small open space areas.
pit. Either slotted rigid pipe (PVC or similar) or ag-pipe The maximum spacing of under-drains for bioretention
can be used for under-drainage. Slotted rigid pipe is systems > 100 m2 can be increased to 2.0–2.5 m.
preferred. Table 3.5 discusses the benefits of slotted Larger bioretention systems are used in local parks
rigid pipe over ag-pipes for bioretention systems. and large open space areas. These specified distances
The design drawings should identify the under-drainage ensure that flows towards the perforated pipes
requirements. Where ag-pipe is specified, consult the through the drainage layer do not hinder drainage
designer in writing to confirm the design. of the filter media.
When installing under-drainage, there are a number • The maximum length of 100 mm slotted PVC is 25 m
of specifications to consider: before the flow conveyance of the pipe is reached.
For longer lengths the pipe size must be increased
• Typically, 100 mm-slotted PVC is the preferred type or duplicated to increase conveyance.
of rigid pipe.
• For effective drainage, perforated pipes should
• The slots in the pipes should not allow the drainage grade at a minimum of 0.5% towards the overflow
layer aggregate to freely enter the pipes. For example, pit. This is best achieved by grading the base of the
if a 2–4 mm aggregate is used for the drainage layer, bioretention system towards the pit, placing the
Table 3.5: Under-drainage types
SLOTTED RIGID PIPE (OR SIMILAR) AG-PIPE
Rigidity The grade of rigid pipes is not affected by local Flexible ag-pipe tends to follow the final profile
depressions in the base of the bioretention system. of the bioretention base, which includes local
This makes it easy to achieve a 0.5% grade towards depressions, making it difficult to create a
the overflow pit. constant grade to the overflow pit. There is also
a risk of local ponding within the ag-pipe.
Ease of connection Standard plumbing for rigid pipes makes it easy to Connecting ag-pipe can be difficult and may
and sealing create connections and sealing for the under- require a substantial amount of sealant.-
drainage. under-drainage pipes must be sealed into the
overflow pit.
Smooth profile The smooth profile (internal surface) of rigid pipes The ribbed profile of ag-pipe is more likely to
is free draining and does not hold water for a retain beads of moisture inside the pipe,
significant period after rain. This minimises the increasing the potential for tree roots to enter
potential for tree roots to enter the pipes in search the pipes in search of water.
of water.
Conveyance The smooth profile of the rigid pipe is less The ribbed profile of ag-pipe creates quite a high
resistant to flow. At a 0.5% grade, a slotted rigid resistance to flow. At a 0.5% grade, an ag-pipe
pipe can convey up to 3L/s, approximately double can convey up to 1.5L/s.
the capacity of ag-pipe.

perforated pipes and the drainage layer on this grade. Figure 3.5:Placed filter media in a bioretention system
• All pipe junctions and connections to the overflow pit showing a flat surface and light compaction
must be sealed to prevent soil entering the pipe
network.
• Under-drains should be extended vertically beyond the
surface of the bioretention system by a minimum of 50
mm, and preferably by 150 mm, to allow inspection and
maintenance. The vertical section of the under-drain
must be unperforated and capped to avoid
short-circuiting flows directly to the drain. The caps
should be secured with screws to reduce the risk of
vandalism.
• Perforated pipes must not use a filter cloth wrapping
or sock. Filter cloths may cause blockages that require
a complete resetting of the bioretention system.
Remove any filter cloth wrapping before installation.
3.4.6 Installing and compacting

bioretention media
To function successfully, bioretention systems depend
on suitable soil media. Guidance on specification and
certification of bioretention media is provided in 3.4.7 Construction issues with large
Section 3.5.
bioretention systems
The placement of drainage, transition and filter media Large bioretention systems can be difficult to construct.
layers must be undertaken carefully to ensure correct Construction plant may need to work from within the
depth, slope and compaction: systems, which risks damaging the under-drainage and
compacting the filter media. It can also be difficult to
• Depth — Filter media should be installed and
create a level surface across a large area while
compacted in two lifts for depths of over 500 mm. For
minimising traffic across the system.
example, for 800 mm of filter media, installation
should be in two lifts of 400 mm. Large systems should be built as separate cells. Each
• Slope — The top surface of the drainage layer, cell should be no wider than twice the reach of an
transition layer and filter media layer should be flat excavator arm. This allows the system to be built with
(Figure 3.5). A spreader bar should level the surface of the excavator operating from either side of the system
each layer. without actually entering it, as shown in Figure 3.6. For
example, for an excavator arm with a reach of 10 m, the
• Compaction — The filter media must be lightly
maximum width of each bioretention cell should be 20 m.
compacted during installation to prevent the
By dividing larger systems into discrete cells, the overall
migration of fine particles. This can be achieved with a
design becomes more resilient, and enables part of the
single pass of a light roller such as a drum lawn roller
system to be reset if necessary.
(Figure 3.5). A vibrating plate can also be used to
compact small bioretention systems or ‘pozitrack’ If it is not possible to split a bioretention system into
bobcats can be used for large systems. Ensure only separate cells, the system can be bulked out using an
one compacting pass is made over the media for light excavator. However, alternative methods are needed to
compaction. Over compaction may result in either install the bioretention media to avoid compaction (see
damage to under drainage pipes or reduced hydraulic Section 3.4.6). Conveyor belts can be used to place
conductivity of the filyter media. material in bioretention systems up to 40 m from the
edge of the system preventing the need to drive heavy
• Flat surface - the surface of the filter media should
machinery over the surface (Figure 3.6).
be completely flat to ensure even distribution of
stormwater flows.

3.4.8 Services
In general, services should not pass through bioretention
systems. However, this is not always possible,
particularly in streetscapes or in some retrofit
situations.
Scenario 1: Divide large bioretention systems into
smaller cells so they can be constructed without heavy Locating services should be part of the design process.
machinery entering the system. Long-arm excavators However, services that do not appear on design plans are
can reach 10 m, so each cell can be 20 m wide. often discovered during construction, particularly in
older areas. Contractors should contact the bioretention
designer to discuss redesign to accommodate any
additional services that are found. Pro-active
collaboration between the superintendent, contractor
and designer is important.
Services should preferably be installed below, or around,

the bioretention media with an impervious barrier if the
Scenario 2: Where systems cannot be split into 20 m
bioretention system is exposed to the services trench.
cells, bioretention media can be moved via a conveyor
The profile of bioretention systems can be modified in
system, allowing for cells of up to 70 m wide.
conjunction with the designer to suit local services
rather than relocate the services.
Figure 3.6: Construction of large bioretention systems
Where services cannot be located around a bioretention
cell, conduits with pits at either end of the bioretention
system should be used. The interface of the conduits and
the edge of the bioretention system must be sealed to
prevent flows from migrating along the services trench.
Detection tape must be placed above the conduits to
clearly mark their location.
3.4.9 Coarse sediment capture

Where stormwater runoff is delivered directly to a
bioretention system without pre-treatment through a
vegetated swale or buffer, coarse sediment may
accumulate near the system inlet. This sediment may
smother vegetation and reduce infiltration to the filter
media. Coarse sediment is the largest volume of
pollution in bioretention systems and therefore creates
the largest maintenance requirement for bioretention
systems.
The design and construction of bioretention systems

must allow for coarse sediment to be captured in a way
that allows easy and infrequent maintenance:
• For very small bioretention systems that receive no

road runoff, no management of coarse sediment is
required.
• For small bioretention systems with catchments of up
to 5 ha that receive road runoff, a coarse sediment
‘forebay’ should be installed with easy access for
infrequent cleaning, typically one per year, using
standard approaches (i.e. excavators, bobcats,
tippers).

• For medium to large bioretention systems with 5–10 • If maintenance access to the inlet pond is not feasible,
ha catchments, coarse sediment should be managed suitable access and space should be allowed for a
with a sediment basin, or inlet pond, with easy access sucker truck to remove sediment. This option is
for infrequent cleaning, such as once every five years, subject to approval by the local council.
using standard approaches (i.e. excavators, bobcats, The base of the coarse sediment forebay must be
tippers). accessible allowing equipment to move easily from the
Gross pollutant traps can be used upstream of access pathway to the forebay.
bioretention systems where space is constrained if
councils agree to regular maintenance such as a monthly 3.5 Bioretention media specification
cleanout. and certification
Coarse sediment forebays should be designed in Up to four types of media may be required to construct
accordance with the WSUD Technical Design Guidelines bioretention systems:
for SEQ (SEQHWP, 2006) and must consider a number • filter layer media (loamy sand)
of specifications:
• transition layer media (coarse sand)
• Forebays should have a solid base to provide support
• drainage layer media (fine aggregate)
for maintenance equipment such as excavators and
bobcats. The base could consist of concrete, grouted • saturated zone media where required
rock or pavers. Section 3.5.1 details the specifications and testing
• Forebays should be placed in in-situ soils to avoid requirements for bioretention media. It also provides
‘short circuiting’ incoming flows due to scouring. guidance on the protocols for compliance and certifying
each media.
• If forebays are located in filter media, the base
should sit on at least 400 mm of filter media. 3.5.1 Filter media
• The top of the sediment forebay should be set above A fundamental part of bioretention systems is the filter
the filter media to allow free drainage. media. The main role of the filter media is to remove
pollutants and support vegetation. Filter media should
Where the bioretention system design does not
be loamy sand that has high permeability when
incorporate coarse sediment management or the
compacted. It should not contain any rubbish or
coarse sediment forebay is not consistent with
deleterious material. The loamy sand should contain
these guidelines, the bioretention designer should
some organic matter to improve water-holding capacity
be consulted in writing.
and plant health, but it should be low in nutrient content.
In Queensland, the filter media must comply with
3.4.10 Maintenance access specific requirements:
Maintenance access is required to remove coarse
• Filter media must meet the requirements of the
sediment from the coarse sediment forebay or
Guideline Specifications for Soil Media in Bioretention
sedimentation basin. Maintenance will occur at least
Systems. The current version of the guideline
once a year and typically involve the use of small-scale
specification can be found at: http://www.monash.edu.
plant such as small excavators or bobcats, trucks,
au/fawb/.
tippers or utes. The width of the access into the coarse
sediment forebay or inlet pond should be a minimum of • The saturated hydraulic conductivity of the filter
3 m with recommended surface finishes: media must be between 100–500 mm/hr. However,
saturated hydraulic conductivity of up to 750 mm/hr
• For slopes greater than 1 in 4, access should be
may be acceptable if plants are given appropriate
reinforced concrete, designed in accordance with local
watering during establishment.
council requirements to support machinery. Surface
finishes can be applied for landscape purposes. • As a minimum, filter media must have a pH range
between 5.5–7.5, electrical conductivity < 1.2 dS/m,
• For slopes less than 1 in 4, access should be reinforced
nitrogen content <800mg/kg and a phosphorous
concrete from the base of the inlet pond to 0.5 m
content of less than 80 mg/kg. Other characteristics
above the standing water level. Over 0.5 m above the
required for plant growth should be confirmed with a
water level, access can be formed using gravel or
soil analysis or confirmed with a horticulturalist, as
reinforced turf.
required by the FAWB guidelines.

• Filter media should be free from actual potential on the same soil grading graphs and extracting the
acid sulfate solis. Suppliers extracting soil from sand relevant diameters.
resources must provide certification of soil based
on acid sulfate testing. 3.5.3 Drainage layer
Suitable filter media can be delivered to site or imported Drainage layers convey infiltrated flows horizontally
sand can be mixed with onsite topsoil. In either case, the across the base of the system into the slotted under-
media should be tested in accordance with the FAWB drainage pipes. Drainage layers should be comprised of
(2008) guidelines at the following frequencies: fine gravel (2–4 mm) within <2% fines and a minimum
saturated hydraulic conductivity of 4000 mm/hr. The
• for small to medium bioretention systems (<500 m2),
drainage layer depth must ensure at least 50 mm of
one sample per 500 m3 of filter media for the FAWB
cover above the under-drainage pipes, and preferably
(2008) guideline tests
100 mm, meaning the typical drainage layer depth is at
• for large bioretention systems (>500 m2), one sample least 200 mm.
per 2,000 m3 of the filter media for the FAWB
A particle size distribution for the gravel should be
guideline tests PLUS one sample per 500m3 of the
obtained to ensure that it meets the bridging criteria
filter media for the hydraulic conductivity test (e.g.
(VicRoads, 2004):
one full FAWB test plus three hydraulic conductivity
tests per 2,000 m3). • D15 (drainage layer) ≤ 5 x D85 (transition layer).
For soil supplied to site, testing must be undertaken
on the actual material delivered to the bioretention 3.5.4 Saturated zone
system. The supplier and contractor are responsible If saturated zones are used, they should consist of:
for ensuring the filter media meets the specifications • 400–500 mm depth, but may deeper depending on the
and the correct material is delivered to site before specific application
installation. Further guidance on certification
• 10–20 mm of clean gravel or coarse washed sand or
and chain of custody is provided in Section 3.5.6.
small rocks of 50 mm diameter maximum
3.5.2 Transition layer • 2% volume of a short-term carbon source, preferably

fine straw
Transition layers prevent filter media migrating into the
drainage layer. Transition layers should be a minimum of • 4–6% volume of a long-term carbon source, preferably
100 mm coarse sand (typically 1 mm) with <2% fines. 5–40 mm hardwood chips to support the
denitrification process.
Recent particle-size distribution for the sand should be
obtained to ensure it meets ‘bridging’ criteria. Bridging Detailed specifications for saturated zones can be
criteria is based on engineering principles that rely on found in the WSUD Guidelines for the Dry Tropics
the largest 15% of the filter media particles bridging (Creek to Coral).
with the smallest 15% of the sand particles. This results
in smaller voids, which prevents the migration of filter 3.5.5 Certification and chain of custody
media particles into the sand. The following equation is The following certification and the chain of custody
taken from the VicRoads (2004): applies to bioretention media:
• D15 (transition layer) ≤ 5 x D85 (filter media). 1. The supplier and contractor are responsible for
The transition layer can be omitted from the ensuring the bioretention media meets the
bioretention media provided the filter media and specifications outlined in these guidelines and that the
drainage layer meets the following criteria as defined by correct material is delivered to site. The supplier must
VicRoads (2004): arrange for testing of the filter media by a certified
soil laboratory in accordance with the saturated
• D15 (drainage layer) ≤ 5 x D85 (filter media)
hydraulic conductivity and FAWB (2008) guideline
• D15 (drainage layer) = 5 to 20 x D15 (filter media) requirements detailed in Section 3.5.1. On the basis of
• D50 (drainage layer < 25 x D50 (filter media) the testing, the soil laboratory and supplier must
certify the material meets these specifications.
• D60 (drainage layer) < 20 x D10 (drainage layer).
The supplier must provide the certification and
These comparisons are best made by plotting the laboratory test results to the contractor with the
particle-size distributions for the filter media and gravel supply docket.

2. The contractor provides a copy of the supplier’s It is important to use a relatively high density and
certification, test results and supply docket to the site diversity of species. This ensures a higher likelihood of
superintendent or bioretention designer for review. successful establishment and quickly delivers a dense,
3. Following review of the certification, test results mature planting, managing any potential weed issues.
and the supply docket, the site superintendent or Local authorities should be consulted for planting
bioretention designer approves installation of the density requirements. The following is recommended as
bioretention media. a minimum:
4. The relevant sections of the Bioretention Media • a planting density of 6–10 plants/m2
Sign-Off Form should be completed and signed. • a minimum of three species per bioretention system.
This Sign-Off Form is provided as part of the
If the design does not allow for these specifications,
construction certification by the site superintendent
consult the designers.
or bioretention designer.
3.6.2 Plant procurement

3.5.6 Compliance testing
Vegetation used in bioretention systems is typically
(for on-maintenance or off-maintenance)
tubestock available from wholesale nurseries. Specialist
When construction of the bioretention system is
nurseries are familiar with supplying plants for WSUD
complete, it is recommended that in-situ measurement
projects. Purchasing from specialist suppliers increases
of hydraulic conductivity is completed as part of
the chances of obtaining the right plants in the correct
transferring the system to ‘on-maintenance’ and
subsequently ‘off-maintenance’ in handover. In-situ
testing should be undertaken in accordance with
when specified plants are unavailable can be
Practice Note 1: In-Situ Measurement of Hydraulic
problematic. If a change in species is necessary, confirm
Conductivity (Hatt and Le Coustumer, 2008) at the
any changes with the designers and document it in the
following frequencies:
as-constructed drawings. Ideally, plant availability
• one set of in-situ tests prior to on-maintenance should be discussed at the site inception meeting.
• one set of in-situ tests every 12 months during the on- For large orders, it is recommended that periodic
maintenance period with at least one test completed inspection of the plant stock at the nursery is
within three months of off–maintenance inspection. undertaken to ensure the plants will be ready when
required. Consider:
3.6 Landscape considerations
• making it explicit at the time of ordering the plants
and specifications that periodic inspections of plants will be required
There are a number of key issues to consider for the
• checking that plants are being grown in clean, weed-
landscape works associated with bioretention systems.
and pest-free conditions
3.6.1 Planting • checking the roots of plants for fresh white roots
Work is ongoing to determine species that are most • ensuring that plants have a ‘hardening off’ phase
suited to stormwater management contexts. Species before delivery and that they are not taken directly
need to be reliable through both wet and dry periods, from a shade house to the construction site.
while also providing good root structure and landscape
3.6.2.1 TIMING
amenity. These characteristics should be considered as
Plant availability varies considerably in different regions
part of the design. These guidelines do not specifically
and at different times of year. Sufficient time must be
detail species selection. The WSUD Technical Design
allowed to order plants. Up to six months lead time may
Guidelines for SEQ (SEQHWP, 2006) and the local
be required to ensure appropriate species are available.
authority should be consulted for more detail.
If provenance plant stock is required, up to 18 months
may be required to collect seeds and propagate plants.
Certain species are very difficult or slow to propagate,

with some species only producing one batch of seedlings

nursery to avoid last minute substitutions due to species • native tubes: 50 x 125 mm with a minimum plant height
not being available at the time of delivery. of 300 mm.
3.6.2.2 MATURITY Seedling pots of 20 mm should be avoided for

Plant stock must be mature, sun-hardened and contain a bioretention systems. These seedlings are considered to
fully established root ball that does not crumble when be relatively immature and may result in high loss rates
removed from its container. Ideally, the plants will be, on and patchy growth.
average, 300–500 mm high and not less than 200 mm
high (Figure 3.7). Height is important to enable plants to 3.6.3 Preparing filter media
cope with inundation and not to be buried in mulch. Filter media in bioretention systems is typically low in
nutrients and has a low cation exchange capacity (CEC).
Figure 3.7: Example of suitable mature tubestock Tubestock may struggle to establish in the short term
without additional nutrients. Before installing filter
media, the characteristics of the media should be tested
at a NATA-accredited laboratory seeking
recommendations for nutrients. If a laboratory analysis
is not possible, it is recommended that each plant
receives at least 5–10g of slow-release native fertiliser
in granular or tablet form. This should be sufficient to
help establishment; however, monitoring may show that
certain species require an additional treatment after
several months.
Plant stress and watering requirements can be

reduced by using a wetting agent at a rate of 2–3g per
Both immature plants and plants that are too old can be plant. Organic wetting agents are preferred, but water
difficult to establish. While some species benefit from crystals can be used if they are hydrated to limit the
additional growing time permitting further rhizome potential of plants being pushed out of their holes as the
development, many species of sedges and other crystals swell.
bioretention plants will struggle to develop if they are
old and pot-bound. These plants will not establish well 3.6.4 Mulching
and may remain stunted, be susceptible to predators Bioretention filter media drains well, which can make it
and disease, and fail to provide the cover required for difficult to establish plants in some instances such as
optimal filtration. hot dry conditions. Mulching retains moisture around
Key things to look for in plant stock include: plants, as well providing a source of organic matter to
help plants establish. Mulching must be undertaken
• signs of pest and disease
before planting.
• signs of nutrient deficiency
There are a number of preferred mulches:
• signs of new growth and general vigour
• Organic friable mulches degrade quickly, within six
• weeds months. Fine sugar cane or tea tree mulch are
• clear labelling. examples of organic friable mulches. To avoid the
Tubestock plants are usually supplied in a plastic mulch being washed away during storms, it should be
container with dimensions of 70–150 mm high and 50–70 pinned down with an organic weed mat, such as loose-
mm wide. However, there is a large variation in tubestock weave jute, pinned at no more than 500 mm centres.
container size and price. A container with dimensions • Organic matting can be used as mulch in some cases,
of at least 90 x 50 x 50 mm is recommended. provided the matting is lightweight and degrades in
These containers can come in a number of forms: less than six months.
• viro tubes: 50x90mm with a minimum plant height • Inorganic mulch that does not float, such as gravel
of 300 mm or stone, can also be used. Care must be taken with
inorganic mulch to ensure that it does not inhabit plant
• 50 mm tubes: 50 x 75–90 mm with a minimum plant
growth. For example during summer, gravel and stones
height of 300 mm
can heat up to the point where they kill tubestock.

Large stones can inhibit the growth and spread landscape establishment, responding to any issues
of plants. River stone should only be used in high about the health of the plants. Responses can include
profile landscapes and locations. watering or fertilising to deal with plant stress, weed
Where organic friable mulch or inorganic mulch is used, presence or weather patterns. Spreading seed can
the thickness should be limited to 50–75 mm to ensure improve the seed bank and increase plant cover in
new vegetation shoots are not hindered. The mulch bare areas.
should be kept clear of plant stems by approximately More than 90% of plants must survive, otherwise
50 mm. The type and depth of mulch should be on the replanting should occur.
design drawings or included in specifications. If not,
the designer should be consulted. 3.6.6 Watering
Mulches to avoid are: Time of year and the climate will determine the
frequency of watering. However, during establishment,
• long-lasting organic mulches including tanbark
regular watering is essential for plants. Successfully
or other hardwood
establishing plants is dependent on the frequency of
• organic mulch that is likely to contain weed seeds watering is dependent on rainfall, the maturity of the
• heavy-duty matting such as 800 gsm jute mat plant stock and the water-holding capacity of the soil.
A watering program should be established. These
• inorganic matting such as filter cloth
guidelines should be adjusted to suit site conditions:
• river stone except in high profile locations due to the
following reasons: • Week 1–6 5 waterings per week
- it is extracted from natural watercourses • Week 6–10 3 waterings per week
- makes maintenence difficult (hard to replant, • Week 11–15 2 waterings per week
voids fill with sediment).
In the absence of rain, it is recommended that each plant
receives 2.5–5.0 litres of water per week during the first
3.6.5 Planting procedure six weeks (40 mm of watering per week during
establishment).
Plant set-out is a critical part of landscaping and must After an initial four-month period, watering may still
be confirmed with the designer or landscape architect be required, particularly during the first winter or dry
before landscape works start. It is essential to confirm period. Watering requirements for healthy vegetation
the placement of species, particularly for trees or can be determined by ongoing inspections.
shrubs within the system or if attempting to mimic
a representative vegetation community. 3.6.7 Measures of successfully
Planting areas should be measured from design established plants
drawings and marked with stakes for ease of planting Planting in bioretention systems is considered to be
and to reduce the risk of incorrect placement. ‘established’ when the plants are robust and self-
sustaining. Growth and maturity should be recorded
3.6.5.2 PLANTING
through three-monthly photo logs every 500 m2.
Plants in bioretention systems are usually planted as
Measurements of an established bioretention system
tubestock using either hand tools or light machinery
are:
such as auger drills. Heavier equipment is not necessary
1. greater than 90% of plants surviving
as the site will be uncompacted. Planter holes should be
twice the size of the tubestock. Plants should be 2. greater than 80% coverage
carefully removed from the tube to ensure their stems 3. preferably more than one species
do not break from the root ball. The top of the root ball
4. at least five plants/m2, but preferably 6–10 plants/m2
should be slightly lower than the surface level after the
media is placed in the planting hole and around the plant. 5. an increase in plant height of at least 50% through the
establishment phase1
3.6.5.3 ESTABLISHING
6. propagation is occurring with more than 2–3 stems and
Given the importance of establishing plant cover within
seeding
the bioretention system as quickly as possible, a pro-
active and adaptive approach should be taken to 7. no weeds.
1 This can be measured by marker stakes in the bioretention basin at a rate of one stake for every 500m2of bioretention basin.

3.7 Managing sediment during the Example of building phase destruction on stormwater
building phase management systems
3.7.1 Managing sediment

Inflow of sediment-laden runoff is major risk to the
successful establishment and long-term functioning of
bioretention systems. Sediment can seal the surface of
the filter media, move into and clog the filter media and
accumulate in the under-drainage. In some bioretention
systems, inflow of sediment has required a complete
reconstruction of the system, at significant cost.
Therefore, managing sediment during the construction
and establishment of bioretention systems is critical
and involves:
• effective erosion and sediment control of civil

catchment of the bioretention system in accordance
with local government requirements and a recognised
guideline, for example the Best Practice Erosion and
Sediment Control (IECA, 2008)
• effective erosion and sediment control during the
building phase in accordance with local government
requirements
• placing protective measures around, and through, the
bioretention system.
Section 3.7.2 describes the challenges associated with
the different phases of development sites. Section 3.8
describes staged construction and establishment
methods available to manage these challenges.

3.7.2 Development phases 3.8 Staged construction and
In the context of a large development site, delivering establishment methods
bioretention systems and establishing vegetation can To overcome the challenges associated with delivering
be challenging. The challenges are best described bioretention systems, one of four staged construction
against each typical phase in the development of and establishment method options is recommended:
a greenfield or infill development (see Figure 3.8):
• Option 1: Surface protection
• Subdivision construction — The risks for WSUD
• Option 2: Bypass flows and early establishment
systems during this phase of work relate to:
of vegetation
- construction activities generating large sediment
• Option 3: Sediment basin and bioretention function
loads in runoff that can smother vegetation and clog
bioretention filter media • Option 4: Leave as sediment basin.
- construction traffic and other works damaging the Table 3.6 summarises the issues and considerations
bioretention systems associated with each of the methods to allow local
authorities, developers, designers and contractors
- all works undertaken during the subdivision
to select the method most suited to their site.
construction are ‘controlled’ through the principal
The following sections discuss each method in
contractor and site manager, meaning that risks can
more detail.
be managed through guidance and supervision.
• Building phase — When the subdivision construction
works are complete and development plans are sealed,
the building phase can commence (i.e. construction of
houses or buildings). This phase is effectively
‘uncontrolled’ due to the number of building
contractors and sub-contractors. Therefore, the
building phase represents the greatest risk to the
successful establishment of bioretention systems.
Figure 3.8: Typical phases in the creation of a development site (amended from Leinster, 2006)

68
Table 3.6: Summary of Staged Construction and Establishment Methods
OPTI ON 1 : SU RFACE P ROTECTI ON OPTION 2: BYPASS AND EARLY OPTION 3: SEDIMENT BASIN AND O P TIO N 4 : LE AVE AS SE DIM E N T
ESTABLISHMENT BIORETENTION FUNCTION B ASIN
Description Construct the civil infrastructure, Construct the civil infrastructure for The approach combines Option 1 Install the hydraulic structures and
including under-drainage and media, the bioretention system. Bypass (surface protection) with a sediment bulk out the system. Allow it to
for the bioretention system. Install stormwater around the bioretention basin upstream of the bioretention operate as a sediment basin (Type C,
protective layers on the surface of system or isolate it from system. Outflow from the sediment D or F) during the building phase.
the filter media, allowing it to stormwater using a temporary bund. basin is discharged to the Refer to a suitable erosion and
operate as a shallow sediment basin This allows the surface of the bioretention system for further sediment control guide, for example
during the building phase. Surface bioretention system to be planted treatment before discharging to the theBest Practice Erosion and
protection options are: out and established immediately. receiving environment. Sediment Control (IECA, 2008) for
Vegetation is fully established by design requirements of sediment
- filter cloth, topsoil and turf The sediment basin should be
the end of the building phase. basin.
designed to capture either coarse
- coarse sand, topsoil and turf
When 80–90% of building in the sediment only (125um) or as a Type C, When building in the catchment is
When 80–90% of building in the
catchment is complete, the bypass D or F sediment basin. Refer to a 80–90% complete, the bioretention
catchment is complete, remove the
systems can be removed and the suitable erosion and sediment system can be cleaned and profiled,
protective layers and establish
bioretention system allowed to control guide, for example the Best the under-drainage and bioretention
vegetation in the bioretention
function. Practice Erosion and Sediment media installed, and the vegetation
system.
Control (IECA, 2008) for design planted and established.
requirements of sediment basin.
When building in the catchment is

80–90% complete, the sediment
basin is cleaned or removed and the

protective layers on the bioretention
system are removed and vegetation
is established.
Order of construction PFollow the procedures in Section Follow the procedures in Section 3.9 Follow the procedures in Section 3.9 Follow the procedures in Section
3.9 from Step 1 to Step 40. from Step 1 to Step 40. from Step 1 to Step 40. 3.10.
Environmental benefit — Moderate Low High High

the level of water quality
management during the
building phase
OPTI ON 1 : SU RFACE P ROTECTI ON OPTION 2: BYPASS AND EARLY OPTION 3: SEDIMENT BASIN AND O P TIO N 4 : LE AVE AS SE DIM E N T
ESTABLISHMENT BIORETENTION FUNCTION B ASIN
Landscape amenity Moderate to high High Moderate Low
Timeframe* 24-36 mo. 12-24 mo. 24-36 mo. 24-36 mo.
Advantages Protects filter media. Protects filter media. Protects filter media. Bioretention system not
constructed until after building,
Very little maintenance during Early establishment of vegetation. High level of protection to receiving
therefore no sediment issues.
building phase. environment.
High amenity.
High level of protection to receiving
Moderate amenity. Amenity should be moderate to high,
Simple and early handover of asset. environment.
provided construction and
establishment is successful.
Disadvantages Moderate protection to receiving Low protection to the receiving Additional space is required for the Poor landscape amenity.
environment (only manages coarse environment during the building sediment basin.
Delay of construction results in a
sediment down to 125um). phase. If Option 2 is adopted, it
A high level of management of long period before asset handover.
should be combined with strict
Vegetation established after sediment basin required, particularly
erosion and sediment control on the A high level of management of
completion of building phase. if it is a Type F sediment basin.
building sites or sediment basins at sediment basin required, particularly
Delayed handover of asset. the discharge point of the drainage if it is a Type F sediment basin.
system (i.e. downstream of the
bioretention systems).
Establishment of plants requires

water or novel irrigation methods
Preferred construction and

establishment method
based on scale:
X X
Streetscape

X
Parkland in high profile
location
Parkland in low profile

location
* Timing dictated by the Building Phase period. (this timing assumes 18-24 moth Building Phase)
69
3.8.1 Option 1: Surface protection • Stage 3 Landscape Establishment — When the
To minimise the risk of damage and the cost of any building phase is 80–90% complete, the temporary
re-establishment, the civil works for bioretention measures protecting the bioretention systems and the
systems can be undertaken and temporary protective accumulated sediment can be removed. The
measures installed to prevent clogging of the filter bioretention system can be planted and established
media during the building phase (see Figure 3.9). according to Section 3.9.3.
Option 1 involves:
As illustrated in Figure 3.10, for Option 1, the system
• Stage 1 Civil Works — Civil construction and
will be in the Building Phase Protection mode for up to
installation of the functional elements of the
24 months, followed by a 12-month period of landscape
bioretention system should be undertaken in
establishment.Advantages of Option 1 are:
accordance with Section 3.9.1.
• the bioretention system is comprehensively protected
• Stage 2 Building Phase Protection
during the building phase
- Sediment fences should be installed around the
• very little maintenance or irrigation is required during
perimeter of the filter media and the top of the
building phase.
batter to prevent sediment from being carried into
the system by overland flow. The fences clearly show Disadvantages of Option 1 include:
that construction traffic should not enter the • the landscape is not established until after the
system. building is complete and plants will not be fully
- Covering the surface of the filtration media with a established until 6–12 months after the building phase
temporary filter cloth or coarse sand (25 mm) and • the filter cloth used to protect the surface of the filter
laying 25 mm of topsoil and turf over it will protect media has blocked in some situations, therefore, the
the bioretention system during the construction and use of coarse sand is also supported.
building phases.
- During the building phase, the extended detention
acts as a shallow sediment basin.
Figure 3.9: Illustration of Option 1: Protect the bioretention system during the building phase
Figure 3.10: Stages of construction associated with Option 1:

Surface protection (amended from Leinster, 2006)

3.8.2 Option 2: Bypass flows and early the filter cloth. The temporary filter cloth or coarse
establishment of vegetation sand and turf layer protect the bioretention system
Option 2 involves either entirely bypassing stormwater during construction ensuring that sediment or litter
around the bioretention system or isolating the system does not clog the filter media.
by partitioning it off using a temporary bund (Figure 3.11). - The majority of the bioretention system located
This allows the majority of the surface to be planted outside the bunded area should be planted out
out and established, ensuring the vegetation is fully immediately. Irrigation is likely to be required to
established at the end of the building phase. establish plants.
• Stage 3 Landscape Establishment — When the
Option 2 involves:
building phase is 80–90% complete, the temporary
• Stage 1 Civil Works — Civil construction and
bund and small area adjacent to the coarse sediment
installation of the functional elements of the
forebay can be removed with accumulated sediment.
bioretention system should be undertaken in
This small part of the system can be planted and
accordance with Section 3.9.1.
established in accordance with Section 3.9.3. Any
• Stage 2 Building Phase Protection and Stage 3 damage to the planted areas of the systems should
Landscape Establishment are undertaken at the same also be repaired at this time.
time:
- Sediment fences are installed around the filter
media and the top of the batter to prevent sediment
from being carried into the system by overland flow
and to clearly show that construction traffic is not
to enter the system.
- Temporary partition bunds are installed to direct
large flows to the overflow pit or overflow weir
before the bund is overtopped. This prevents
sediment-laden runoff from spreading across the
surface of the bioretention system.
- The area enclosed by the bund will act as a
temporary sediment basin during the building phase
for increased sediment loads. The bunded area will
typically include a coarse sediment forebay and a
small portion of bioretention system surface. A
temporary protective layer is applied to the surface
of the system located within the bunded area. The
filtration media surface is covered with filter cloth
or coarse sand and 25 mm of topsoil and turf over
Figure 3.11: Illustration of Option 2: Protection of the bioretention system during the building phase

As illustrated in Figure 3.12, Option 2 means that very 3.8.3 Option 3: Sediment basin and
little landscape establishment is required when the bioretention functionOption 3 delivers the
building phase is complete. The asset can be handed civil infrastructure associated with the bioretention in
over in a mature landscape state 12 months earlier than accordance with Section 3.9.1 and creates a sediment
in Option 1. basin upstream of the bioretention system (Figure
3.13). Outflow from the sediment basin is discharged to
Advantages of Option 2 are:
the bioretention system for further treatment before
• the majority of the bioretention system is protected
it enters the receiving environment. This approach
during the building phase
is dependent on the topography of the site and the
• the majority of the surface is established with available space. Two design approaches are available for
vegetation giving confidence the system will be the sediment basin:
functional after asset handover
1. Coarse sediment capture — The sediment basin is
• it provides landscape amenity when the developer designed to only capture coarse sediment (125 um) in
is marketing the development accordance with WSUD Technical Design Guidelines
• the asset handover process is shorter than Option 1. for South East Queensland (SEQHPW, 2006). In this
case, a substantial amount of fine sediment will enter
Disadvantages include:
the bioretention system from the sediment pond. A
• there are risks associated with construction and protective layer of filter cloth or coarse sand, topsoil
overtopping of the bund and turf should be applied to the surface of the
• the plants in the partitioned part of the bioretention bioretention system.
system are isolated from stormwater flows requiring 2. Type C, D or F Sediment Basin — The sediment basin
ongoing watering for a long period, although there is is designed in accordance with the local erosion and
potential to use filter socks to deliver stormwater to sediment control guidelines or Best Practice Erosion
plants for irrigation and Sediment Control (IECA, 2008) as a Type C, D or F
• the sedimentation zone is much smaller and therefore basin as determined by the local soils. High flows are
provides less erosion and sediment control during the allowed to enter the receiving environment while the
building phase and less protection to downstream treated stormwater from the sediment basin is
waterways. Therefore, when adopting Option 2, it is discharged to the bioretention system. The suspended
recommended strict erosion and sediment control solids in the stormwater should be less than 50 mg/L;
is enforced on the building sites or sediment basins however, the protective filter cloth or coarse sand,
are installed at the outlet of the drainage system topsoil, turf or coarse sand protective layers should
(i.e. downstream of the bioretention systems) still be installed during the building phase.
where space allows.
Figure 3.12: Stages of construction associated with Option 2: Protect and establish
vegetation during building phase (amended from Leinster, 2006)

For staging, this approach involves: Advantages of Option 4 are:
• Stage 1 Civil Works — Civil construction and • the bioretention system is constructed after the
installation of the functional elements of the building phase, avoiding sediment issues
bioretention system should be undertaken in • the sediment basin plays a greater role in erosion
accordance with Section 3.10.1. and sediment control.
• Stage 2 Building Phase Protection Disadvantages of Option 4 are:
- Construct the sediment basin in accordance with • delay in construction may delay plan sealing, on-
Approach 1 or 2 listed above. maintenance, bond refunding and asset handover
- Install sediment fences around the perimeter of the with financial implications for the developer
filter media and the top of the batter to prevent • the system will look unsightly for a longer period
sediment from being carried into the system by
• high uncompleted works bond
overland flow and to clearly show that construction
traffic is not to enter the systems. • there may be a public health risk that could require
fencing of basin.
- Cover the surface of filtration media with filter cloth
or coarse sand and place 25 mm topsoil and turf over
It is recommended Option 4 is only considered for
the filter cloth. The temporary filter cloth (bidum or
large-scale bioretention systems where there is an
similar) or a sand and turf layer will protect the
opportunity to hide the system within a large landscape
bioretention system during the construction and
area while it acts as a sediment basin.
building phases. It will ensure sediment-laden water
does not enter the filter media causing clogging.
Figure 3.13: Option 4: Sediment basin and
- During the building phase, the sediment basin and
bioretention function
protected bioretention system will effectively
manage the water quality of runoff during the
building phase.
• Stage 3 Landscape Establishment — When 80–90%
of the building phase is complete, the sediment basin
can be cleaned or removed, temporary measures
protecting the functional elements of the bioretention
systems can be removed and the system can be
planted and established in accordance with
Section 3.9.3.
3.8.4 Option 4: Leave as sediment basin

Option 4 involves bulking the bioretention system
and leaving it to function as a sediment basin during Figure 3.14: Option 4: Leave as sediment basin
landscape works and the entire building phase
(Figure 3.14). The size of the sediment basin should
be established in accordance with local erosion and
sediment control guidelines or Best Practice Erosion
and Sediment Control (IECA, 2008) as a Type C, D or F
basin as determined by the local soils.
When 80–90% of the allotments are complete,

the sediment basin can be cleaned and the bioretention
system constructed in accordance with the civil
works and the landscape works. Refer to Section 3.9
for details.

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3.9 Step-by-step sequence — Options 1, 2 and 3
landscape establishment for the Staged Construction and Establishment Options 1, 2 and 3. Detailed descriptions
and, where available, photos are provided for each step in tabular format. It is envisaged the tables will be laminated
and used as an on-site reference during construction and establishment.
3.9.1 Stage 1 – Civil construction

The recommended civil construction sequence for bioretention systems is summarised in Table 3.7. The construction
sequence should be read in combination with the Bioretention Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms.
Table 3.7: Civil construction (Stage 1) step-by-step sequence — Options 1, 2 and 3
CONSTRUCT ION STEP ACTIV IT Y PHOTOS P HOTO S

(SMALL BIORETENTION SYSTEM) ( LAR GE B IO R E TE N TIO N SYSTE M )
STEP 1: Pre-start meeting Hold a pre-start meeting with the bioretention designer, civil
engineer, landscape architect, site superintendent, civil
contractor, landscape contractor and, where required, the Council
compliance officer to:
- explain the function of the bioretention system
- highlight issues and risks associated with construction and

establishment
- talk through a preferred construction and establishment

approach for the site

- explain the as-constructed survey or drawing, inspection and
sign-off requirements
- confirm sources of bioretention media and certification

requirements.
STEP 2: Preparation Prepare for construction at least 10 days before starting on site.
Preparation includes organising the correct equipment to achieve
required tolerances (Section 3.4.2), sourcing the bioretention
media, ensuring the supplier of the filter media is completing the
correct testing (Section 3.5), ordering materials and identifying
construction timing and rain contingency plans (Section 3.3).
STEP 3: Install overflow pit and Install the overflow pit and ensure the crest of the pit is at design
outlet pipe level. The crest of the pit can be used as a datum from which other
levels within the system are measured. The pit requires holes for
under-drainage pipe connections. These holes should be drilled at
this stage or plastic stubs should be installed at the time of
casting the pit.
Construct outflow headwalls and install sections of stormwater

outlet pipe. If the outlet pipe is below the receiving environment
levels (Section 3.3.4) consult the superintendent and designers to
resolve a change in the design.
Design levels and tolerances (+25 mm) must be achieved

(Section 3.4.2).
STEP 4: Bulking out Undertake bulk earthworks, including construction of bunds

surrounding system. The bunds and batters surrounding the
system should have 200 mm of topsoil applied following
earthworks. Design levels for the top of the bund are inclusive of
this 200 mm layer of topsoil, so that bulk earthworks should leave
the top of bund 200 mm below the design level.
Excavate the surrounding landform to design subsoil levels. This

will reduce the need for earthworks adjacent to the systems after
they have been constructed. If adopting Construction and
Establishment Method Option 3, the upstream sediment basin
should be constructed and commissioned prior to bulking out the
bioretention system.

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STEP 5: Trimming and profiling Undertake detailed excavation, trimming and profiling of bunds,
embankments, batters, sides and base of system, ensuring the
base has a minimum 0.5% grade towards pit, unless the design
specifies a flat base and design levels achieve (+ 50 mm).
If the design has a flat base and does not contain the 0.5% grade,
confirm with the designer and refer to these guidelines or the
WSUD Technical Design Guidelines for SEQ (SEQHWP, 2006).
Ensure base of system is free from debris and meets the

tolerances (Section 3.4.2).
STEP 6: Construct overflow weir Where an overflow weir is part of the system design, it should be
if required constructed at this stage and appropriately ‘keyed’ into the bunds
to avoid potential scour at the edges of the weir. Design levels and
tolerances must be achieved (+25 mm).
STEP 7: As-constructed survey Undertake an as-constructed survey of the system at this stage
to confirm design and tolerances (Section 3.4.2) are achieved,
including:
- overflow pit crest level, invert level and under-drainage

connections invert and diameter
- outlet pipe upstream and downstream invert levels
- overflow weir
- base of bioretention system to illustrate the level and
the 0.5% grade.
STEP 8: HOLD POINT Following collection of the as-constructed survey, the site
Inspection and sign-off (Form A) superintendent and bioretention designer will inspect the system
with the contractor, review the as-constructed survey and take
photos. If the construction meets the tolerances outlined Section
3.4.2 and conforms with the design, complete Sign-Off Form A
attaching the as-constructed survey and photos.
STEP 9: Filter cloth Lining Line system with filter cloth, ensuring the filter cloth extends a
minimum of 500 mm beyond the top of the bioretention system
side walls.
STEP 10: Install under-drainage Install slotted rigid under-drainage pipes and ag-pipes and rigid
collector pipes in the specified layout outlined in Section 3.3.6.
Ensure all pipes are laid at a minimum 0.5% slope with no localised
depressions verified using levels or string lines. Ensure levels are
achieved (+25 mm). Seal junctions and connections using sufficient
sealant to prevent sand, gravel or soil passing into drainage
network.
The same drainage layer material (aggregate) may be required to

raise pipe in section to adhere to design grade (0.5%).
STEP 11: Install cleanouts Connect clean-out points ensuring top of clean-out points will
ultimately sit at least 50 mm (preferably 150 mm) above the
bioretention surface. The caps on the clean-out points should be
screwed in place to secure against vandalism.

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STEP 12: HOLD POINT Following installation of the liner and under-drainage, either the
Inspection and sign-off (Form B) site superintendent or bioretention designer will inspect the
system with the contractor and take photos. If the lining and
under-drainage meets the design and construction requirements,
they will complete Sign-Off Form B and attach photos.
STEP 13: Source drainage layer, Testing and sourcing the drainage, transition and filter media
transition layer and filter media layers should have commenced as part of Step 2. By Step13, the
material material can be delivered and stockpiled on site ready for
installation.
STEP 14: Install drainage layer Install 200–250 mm deep gravel drainage layer to cover the
slotted under-drainage pipe network. The preferred approach is
to use an excavator (long-arm if required) or conveyor belt (see
Section 3.4.7) positioned on the edge of the system to place
gravel into the system. Contractors can then spread and flatten
the gravel to the specified depth using spreader bars. The exact
procedure for constructing the drainage layer is determined
through consultation with the contractor. It may differ from the
procedure described in Section 3.4.7.

The site superintendent or bioretention designer should inspect
the drainage layer to ensure the correct depth (200–250 mm)
and tolerances (+25 mm) have been achieved and that the surface
is flat.
STEP 15: HOLD POINT The site superintendent or bioretention designer should inspect
Inspection of drainage layer the drainage layer to ensure the correct depths (200–250 mm)
and grades (typically 0.5%) have been achieved and the surface is
flat. The relevant sections of Sign-Off Form C must be completed
and photos taken. There is no need to stop construction for this
inspection unless specifically required. The site superintendent or
designer should undertake the inspection as construction occurs.
STEP 16: Install transition layer Install a 100 mm deep coarse sand transition layer on top of the
gravel drainage layer using the same approach outlined in Step 14
to achieve the correct tolerances (+25 mm) and to ensure the
surface is flat.
STEP 17: Inspection of The site superintendent or bioretention designer should inspect
transition layer the transition layer to ensure the correct depths (100 mm) and
grade (typically 0.5%) have been achieved and that the surface is
flat. The relevant sections of Sign-Off Form C should be
completed and photos taken. The site superintendent or designer
can undertake the inspection as construction occurs.
STEP 18: Install filter media Place the bioretention filter media to the designed the surface
level of the bioretention system in two separate lifts, where
required, with each lift lightly compacted as outlined in Section
3.4.6. At the completion of the section lift and compaction, use a
spreader bar to flatten the surface of the filter media. Ultimately,
the surface of the filter media must be at the design level (+25
mm) and free from local depressions.
STEP 19: Install sediment fences Immediately after installing the filter media, install sediment
fences around the filter media and at the top of the batter to
prevent sediment from entering the batters and to keep
construction vehicles off the system.
STEP 20: Lay protective filter If there is a delay between Step 18 and Steps 25 and 29, the

cloth, where required surface and batters of the bioretention system should be covered
with a temporary layer of filter cloth to protect against sediment-
laden runoff. Some or all of this filter cloth will be left in place as
part of Steps 25 to 28.
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STEP 21: As constructed survey Undertake an as-constructed survey of the system surface and
surrounding bunds, picking at least four spots on the surface of
the small bioretention systems (<100 m²), one spot level per 100
m² on the surface of large bioretention systems and at least one
spot level every 10 m along the top of the bunds as well as any
low points.
Inspection and sign-off superintendent and bioretention designer will inspect the system,
(Forms C and D) review the as-constructed survey and take photos. If the
construction meets the tolerances outlined in Section 3.4.2 and
conforms to the design, Sign-Off Forms C and D will be completed
and signed and the as-constructed survey and photos attached.
STEP 23: Install coarse sediment Construct the coarse sediment forebay in accordance with the
forebay design and advice provided in Section 3.4.9. Concrete is preferred
with surface treatment as directed by the design.
STEP 24: Inspection and sign-off The site superintendent or bioretention designer should inspect
(Form E) the coarse sediment forebay to ensure consistency with design.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION The relevant sections of Sign-Off Form E should be completed
and photos are taken before either Building Phase Protection

works or Landscape Works start.
CONTINUE TO STEP 25 (Building Phase Protection) if there is building or works in the catchment
that will cause damage to the bioretention system or the accumulation of sediment in the system.
CONTINUE TO STEP 29 (Landscape Works) if there is no building or works proposed in the

catchment that are likely to cause damage to the bioretention system or the accumulation
of sediment in the system.
Steps 25–28 provide the construction and establishment sequence for the Building Phase Protection (Stage 2)
for Option 1, 2 and 3.
Table 3.8: Building phase protection (Stage 2) step-by-step sequence — Options 1 and 3

STEP 25: Install sediment fences If not installed as part of Step 19, sediment fences should be
installed around the filter media and at the top of the batter to
prevent sediment entering from the batters and to keep
STEP 26: Install protective layers Cover the surface of filter media with filter cloth or 25–50 mm of
on surface of filter media (filter coarse sand and place 25 mm topsoil and turf over the filter cloth
cloth and turf) or coarse sand.
Filter cloth has been known to block in some situations. Coarse

sand (25–50 mm) can be used if there is concern with the filter
cloth.
STEP 27: HOLD POINT Inspection Following installation of protective layers, the site
and sign-off (Form F) superintendent and bioretention designer will inspect the system
with the contractor. If approved, Sign-Off Form F can be
completed and signed and photos attached.
STEP 28: Building phase During the building phase, which may be as long as 2–4 years, the
operation bioretention system will operate as a shallow sediment basin, and
protect the filter media from sediment and clogging.

When 80–90% of the building in the catchment is complete,
Stage 3: Landscape Works can start (Step 29).
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STEP 25: Install sediment fences If not already installed as part of STEP 19, sediment fences should
be installed around the filter media and at the top of the batter to
prevent sediment entering from the batters and to keep
STEP 26A: Install bypass system The majority of the bioretention system should be isolated from
(temporary protective bunds) sediment-laden inflows. This can be achieved by:
- completely bypassing pipe flows during the building phase and

connecting the pipe system to the bioretention system
following the building phase
- partitioning (bunding) the majority of the bioretention system

to isolate flows to the outlet and inlet of the system.
Where partitioning (bunding) is used:
- it should be designed so that flows are directed into either the

overflow pit or overflow weir rather than entering the
bioretention system preventing sediment-laden runoff from
spreading across the bioretention surface
- in small bioretention systems, the protective bund can be

created using form ply with all joints overlaid and sealed
- in larger bioretention system, the protective bunds can be

created using the filter media wrapped in filter cloth
- the crest of the bund should be higher than both the overflow
pit and the surrounding embankments to ensure no sediment-
laden flow enters the bioretention system and the bund should
be keyed into the batters to avoid scouring around the edges
causing water to enter the system.
STEP 26B: Install protective Install temporary protective covering over the bioretention
layers on surface of filter media surface located within bunded area adjacent to the coarse
(filter cloth and turf) sediment forebay. Cover the surface of filtration media with filter
cloth (or coarse sand) and place 25 mm topsoil and turf over the
filter cloth.
STEP 27: HOLD POINT Inspection Following collection of the as-constructed survey, the site
and sign-off (Form F) superintendent and bioretention designer will inspect the system,
review the as-constructed survey and take photos. If the
construction meets the tolerances outlined in Section 3.4.2 and
conforms to the design, Sign-Off Forms C and D will be completed
and signed and the as-constructed survey and photos attached.
STEP 28: Building phase During the building phase, which may be up to 2–4 years,
operation landscape can be established on the majority of the bioretention
system surfaces in accordance with Stage 3: Landscape Works
(Step 29 onwards).
The small, protected part of the bioretention system will operate

as a sediment basin, while protecting the filter media from
sediment and clogging. When 80–90% of the building in the
catchment is complete, the bund and protective layers can be
removed and appropriate landscaping applied.

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3.9.3 Stage 3 — Landscape establishment
Once the building phase is finished, the protected portions of the bioretention system are cleaned and any
accumulated is removed in readiness for establishing the landscape. The recommended landscape establishment
sequence for the bioretention systems is shown in Table 3.10. The construction sequence should be read in
combination with the Bioretention Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms.
Table 3.9: Landscape establishment (Stage 3) step-by-step sequence — Options 1, 2 and 3

STEP 29: Pre-start and plant set- Before starting landscape preparation, hold a pre-start and plant
out meeting set-out meeting with the bioretention designers, including an
ecologist, site superintendent and landscape contractors. The
meeting should confirm design and planting establishment and
set out the planting to ensure the correct plants are installed in
the correct locations.
STEP 30: Preparation Prepare for the landscape establishment up to six months before
starting, including ordering and inspecting plants at the nursery,
ordering and receiving organic mulch and matting and organising a
source of irrigation water.
STEP 31: Remove building phase Remove the building phase protective measures such as bunds,
protection and flushing of under- filter cloth, coarse sand, turf and accumulated sediment. Care

drainage (where required) should be taken to avoid damaging the clean-out points for the
under-drainage.
The under-drainage should be flushed out with potable water to

remove any accumulated sediment.
If adopting Option 1, the protective measures will remain in place

while landscape is being establishment. Protective measures are
removed when building is 80–90% complete.
STEP 32: Flatten surface After the protective layers are removed, flatten the surface of the
filter media using a spreader bar. Additional filter media may be
required to fill in any over-excavated zones. Care should be taken
to not over-compact the filter media (refer Sections 3.4.6 and
3.4.7).
STEP 33: Mulching Mulch the filter media surface in accordance with Section 3.6.4.
Create holes in the mulch for planting. Ensure the holes have 50
mm separation from stem of the plant to the mulch.
STEP 34: Soil preparation Dig planting holes by hand and apply the prescribed amount of
slow-release native fertiliser detailed in Section 3.6.3. Pre-soaked
wetting agents are recommended in this step.
STEP 35: Planting Plant tubestock ensuring the root ball is covered with filter media
and the stem is sitting above the filter media. Clear away any
mulch from the step to 50 mm (refer Section 3.6.5).

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STEP 36: Inspection and sign-off After installing the mulch and plants, the site superintendent and
(Form G) bioretention designer will inspect the system and Sign-Off Form
PRACTICAL COMPLETION G is completed and photos attached.
Week 6–103 waterings per week
Week 11–152 waterings per week
If there is no rain, each plant should receive 2.5–5.0 litres

of water per week during establishment in the first six weeks
(40 mm per week).
STEP 38: Weeding Inspect bioretention plants fortnightly during

establishment,removing any weeds by hand.

STEP 39: On-going inspections Monitor the establishment of plants until they are robust and
and final landscape self-sustaining.
establishment
An established bioretention is measured by (Section 3.6.7):
2. 80% coverage of bioretention surface
3. more than one species per macrophyte zone
4. at least 5 plants per m2 and preferably 6–10 plants/m2
5. an increase in plant height of at least 50% measured through

markers or stakes
6. propagation of more than 2–3 stems and there is seeding
7. no weeds.
Record growth and maturity through three-monthly photo logs

every 500m2.
STEP 40: Inspection and sign-off After plants are established, the site superintendent and
(Form H) bioretention designer will inspect the system and complete
Sign-Off Form H with attached photos.

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3.10 Step-by-step sequence — Option 4
The following sections provide a step-by-step sequence for the civil construction, building phase protection and
landscape establishment for Staged Construction and Establishment Option 4. Detailed descriptions and, where
available, photos are provided for each step in tabular format. It is envisaged the tables will be laminated and used
as an on-site reference during construction and establishment.
3.10.1 Stage 1 — Civil construction

Stage 1 involves the civil works to create the form of the bioretention system and install structures following
which the system is allowed to operate as a sedimentation basin. The civil construction sequence for Stage 1 is
summarised in the Table 3.11. The construction sequence should be read in combination with the Bioretention System
Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms.
Table 3.10: Civil construction (Stage 1) step-by-step sequence — Option 4


establishment

approach for the site explain the as-constructed survey or
drawing, inspection and sign-off requirements.
required tolerances (Section 3.4.2), ordering materials and
identifying construction timing and rain contingency plans
(Section 3.3).
STEP 3: Install overflow pit and Install overflow pit and ensure the crest of the pit is at design
outlet pipe level. The crest of the pit can be used as a datum from which other
levels within the system are be measured. The pit requires holes
for under-drainage pipe connections. These holes should be
drilled at this stage or plastic stubs should be installed at the time
of casting the pit.
Construct outflow headwalls and install sections of stormwater

outlet pipe. If the outlet pipe is below the receiving environment
levels (Section 3.4.5) consult the superintendent and designers to
resolve a change in the design.
Design levels and tolerances (±25 mm) must be achieved

(Section 3.4.2).
STEP 4: Bulking out Undertake bulk earthworks, including construction of bunds

surrounding the system. The bunds and batters surrounding the
systems should have 200 mm of topsoil applied following
earthworks. Design levels for the top of the bund are inclusive
of this 200 mm layer of topsoil, so that bulk earthworks should
leave the top of bund 200 mm below the design level.
The bulked out bioretention system will operate as a

sediment basin.
Where required by the sediment basin design, for example the

Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control (IECA, 2008), the
sediment basin may need to be larger than the ‘bulked out’
bioretention system. In this case, the bulking out will be dictated

by the sediment basin design rather than the bioretention design.
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STEP 5: Install sediment basin The various flow controls for the sediment basin should be
flow controls installed in accordance with the sediment basin design, for
example the Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control
(IECA, 2008).
STEP 6: Stabilise base of The base of the sediment basin should be stabilised to avoid
sediment basin scour and re-suspension of sediment. This may involve installation
of turf or filter cloth in the base of the system.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION OF STAGE 1 CIVIL WORKS: The ‘bulked out’ bioretention system operates as
a sedimentation basin during building phase of development. At the end of the building phase (80–90%
completion of building) the bioretention system (sediment basin) is cleaned out and civil works
completed and landscape established.

The bioretention system is allowed to operate as a sedimentation basin during the building phase (Figure 3.15).
Operation and management of the sedimentation basin is the responsibility of the developer and it is suggested a
maintenance contract is established with the civil or landscape contractor to monitor the performance of the
sedimentation basin, undertake regular inspections, clean the basin as required and complete rectification of the
system as required, for example, in the Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control (IECA, 2008).

Figure 3 15: Building basin operating as a sediment basin during
the building phase
3.10.3 Stage 3 — Civil construction and landscape establishment
Once the building phase is complete, the bioretention system is cleaned out of accumulated sediment, civil works
are finalised and landscape established in accordance with the sequence provided in Table 3.12. The construction and
establishment sequence should be read in combination with the Bioretention System Construction and
Establishment Sign-Off Forms.
Table 3.11: Civil construction and landscape establishment step-by-step sequence — Option 3

(LARGE BIORETENTION SYSTEM) ( LAR GE B IO R E TE N TIO N SYSTE M )

establishment

approach for the site
- explain the as-constructed survey or drawing, inspection and

sign-off requirements
- confirm sources of bioretention media and certification

requirements.
required tolerances (Section 3.4.2), sourcing the bioretention
media ensuring the supplier of the filter media is completing the

correct testing (Section 3.5), ordering materials and identifying
construction timing and rain contingency plans (Section 3.3).
STEP 9: Clean out the Drain the bioretention system and remove accumulated sediment,
bioretention system gross litter and any lining installed for sediment basin operation.
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STEP 10: Check the hydraulic The hydraulic structures should be inspected for damage or
structures movement.
STEP 11: Trimming and profiling Undertake detailed excavation, trimming and profiling of bunds,
embankments, batters, sides and base of system, ensuring base
has minimum 0.5% grade towards pit, unless the design specifies
a flat base and design levels achieve (+ 50 mm).
If the design has a flat base, confirm with the designer and refer
to these guidelines or the WSUD Technical Guidelines for South
East Queensland (SEQHWP, 2006)if the designer does not
understand the purposes of the 0.5% grade.
Ensure base of system is free from debris and meets the

tolerances (Section 3.4.2).
STEP 12: Construct overflow weir Where an overflow weir is part of the system design, it should be
if required constructed at this stage and appropriately ‘keyed’ into the bunds
to avoid potential scour at the edges of the weir. Design levels and
tolerances must be achieved (+25 mm).
STEP 13: As-constructed survey An as-constructed survey of the system is required at this stage
to confirm design and tolerances (Section 3.4.2) are achieved,

including:
- overflow pit crest level, invert level and under-drainage

connections invert and diameter
- outlet pipe upstream and downstream invert levels
- overflow weir
- base of bioretention system to illustrate the level and the

0.5% grade.
Inspection and sign-off (Form A) superintendent and bioretention designer will inspect the system
STEP 15: Filter cloth lining Line system with filter cloth, ensuring filter cloth extends
a minimum of 500 mm beyond the top of the bioretention
system’s side walls.
STEP 16: Install under-drainage Install slotted rigid under-drainage pipes or ag-pipe and rigid
collector pipes in the specified layout outlined in Section 3.4.5.
Ensure all pipes are laid at a minimum 0.5% slope with no
localised depressions verified using levels or string lines. Ensure
levels are achieved (+25 mm). Seal junctions and connections
using sufficient sealant to prevent sand, gravel or soil passing into
drainage network.
The same drainage layer material (aggregate) can be used to

adjust the under drainage grade of the pipe to 0.5%.
STEP 17: Install cleanouts Connect clean out points ensuring the top of clean out points will
ultimately sit at least 50 mm (preferably 150 mm) above the
bioretention surface. Clean out caps should be screwed in place to

secure against vandalism.
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Inspection and sign-off (Form B) superintendent and bioretention designer will inspect the system
STEP 19: Source drainage layer, Testing and sourcing of the drainage, transition and filter media
transition layer and filter media layers should have commenced as part of Step 2. By Step 19, the
material material can be delivered and stockpiled on site ready for
installation.
STEP 20: Install drainage layer Install 200–250 mm deep gravel drainage layer to cover the
slotted under-drainage pipe network. The preferred approach is
to use an excavator (long-arm if required) or conveyor belt (see
Section 3.4.7) positioned on the edge of the system to place
gravel into the system. Contractors can then spread and flatten
the gravel to the specified depth using spreader bars. The exact
procedure for constructing the drainage layer is determined
through consultation with the contractor. It may differ from the
procedure described in Section 3.4.7.
The site superintendent or bioretention designer should inspect

the drainage layer to ensure the correct depth (200–250 mm) and
tolerances (+25 mm) have been achieved and that the surface is
flat.
STEP 21: HOLD POINT The site superintendent or bioretention designer should inspect
Inspection of drainage layer the drainage layer to ensure the correct depths (200–250 mm)
and grade (typically 0.5%) have been achieved and the surface is
flat. The relevant sections of Sign-Off Form C must completed
and photos taken. There is no need to stop construction for this
inspection unless specifically required. The site superintendent or
designer should undertake the inspection as construction occurs.
STEP 22: Install transition layer Install a 100 mm deep coarse sand transition layer on top of the
gravel drainage layer using the same approach outlined in Step 14
to achieve the correct tolerances (+25 mm) and to ensure the
surface is flat.
STEP 23: Inspection The site superintendent or bioretention designer should inspect
of transition layer the transition layer to ensure the correct depths (100 mm) and
grade (typically 0.5%) have been achieved and that the surface is
flat. The relevant sections of Sign-Off Form C should be
completed and photos taken. There is no need to stop
construction for this inspection, unless specifically required.
The site superintendent or designer should undertake the
inspection as construction occurs.
STEP 24: Install filter media Place the bioretention filter media to the designed the surface
level of the bioretention system, in two separate lifts where
required, with each lift lightly compacted as outlined in Section
3.4.6. At the completion of the section lift and compaction, use a
spreader bar to flatten the surface of the filter media. Ultimately,
the surface of the filter media must be level at the design level
(+25 mm) and free from local depressions.
STEP 25: Install sediment fences Immediately after installing the filter media, install sediment
fences around filter media and at the top of the batter to prevent
sediment from entering the batters and to keep construction
vehicles off the system.

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STEP 26: Lay protective filter If there will be delay between Step 34 and Step 35 (handover from
cloth, where required civil contractor to landscape contractor), the surface and batters
of the bioretention system should be covered with a temporary
layer of filter cloth to protect against sediment-laden runoff. The
filter cloth will be removed prior to installation and establishment
of the landscape.
STEP 27: As constructed survey Undertake an as-constructed survey of the system surface and
surrounding bunds, choosing at least four spots on the surface
of the small bioretention systems (<100 m²), one spot level per
100 m² on the surface of large bioretention systems and at least
one spot level every 10 m along the top of the bunds as well as any
low points.
Inspection and sign-off superintendent and bioretention designer will inspect the system,
(Forms C and D) review the as-constructed survey and take photos. If the
construction meets the tolerances outlined Section 3.4.2 and
conforms with the design, Sign-Off Forms C and D will be
completed and signed and the as-constructed survey and
photos attached.
STEP 29: Install coarse sediment Construct coarse sediment forebay in accordance with the design

forebay and advice provided in Section 3.4.9. Concrete is preferred with
surface treatment as directed by the design.
STEP 30: Inspection and sign-off The site superintendent or bioretention designer should inspect
(Form E) the coarse sediment forebay to ensure consistency with design.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION The relevant sections of Sign-Off Form E should be completed
and photos taken before either Building Phase Protection works
or Landscape Works start.
CONTINUE TO STEP 31 (Landscape Works) immediately. This will involve a rapid handover from the
civil contractor to the landscape contractor.
Landscape works Before starting landscape preparation, hold a pre-start and plant
STEP 31: Pre-start and plant set-out meeting with the bioretention designers, including an
set-out meeting ecologist, site superintendent and landscape contractors. The
meeting should confirm design and planting establishment and
set out the planting to ensure the correct plants are installed in
STEP 32: Preparation Prepare for the landscape establishment up to six months before
starting, including ordering and inspecting plants at the nursery,
ordering and receiving organic mulch and matting and organising a
source of irrigation water. For bioretention systems, recycled
water for irrigation is generally not recommended.
STEP 33: Remove temporary If temporary protective filter cloth was installed at STEP 26, this
protection should be removed at this stage. Care should be taken to avoid
damaging the clean-out points for the under-drainage.
STEP 34: Flatten surface After the protective layers are removed, flatten the surface
of the filter media using a spreader bar. Additional filter media
may be required to fill in any over-excavated zones. Care should
be taken to not over-compact the filter media (refer Sections
3.4.6 and 3.4.7).

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STEP 35: Mulching Mulch the filter media surface in accordance with Section 3.6.4.
Create holes in the mulch for planting. Ensure the holes have 50
mm separation from stem of the plant to the mulch.
STEP 36: Soil preparation Dig planting holes by hand and apply the prescribed amount of
slow-release native fertiliser detailed in Section 3.6.3. Pre-soaked
wetting agents are recommended in this step.
STEP 37: Planting Plant tubestock ensuring the root ball is covered with filter media
and the stem is sitting above the filter media. Clear away any
mulch from the step to 50 mm (refer Section 3.6.5).

STEP 38: Inspection and sign-off After installing the mulch and plants, the site superintendent and
(Form G) bioretention designer will inspect the system and Sign-Off Form
PRACTICAL COMPLETION G is completed and photos attached.
If there is no rain, each plant should receive 2.5–5.0 litres of water

per week during establishment in the first six weeks
(40 mm per week).
STEP 40: Weeding Inspect bioretention plants fortnightly during establishment,

removing any weeds by hand.
STEP 41: On-going inspections Monitor the establishment of plants until they are robust and
and final landscape self-sustaining.An established bioretention is measured by
establishment (Section 3.6.7):
2. 80% coverage of bioretention surface
3. more than one species per macrophyte zone
4. at least 5 plants per m2 and preferably 6–10 plants/m2
5. an increase in plant height of at least 50% measured through

markers or stakes
6. propagation of more than 2–3 stems and there is seeding
7. no weeds.
Record growth and maturity through three-monthly photo logs

every 500m2.
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STEP 42: Inspection and sign-off After plants are established, the site superintendent and
(Form H) bioretention designer will inspect the system and complete
Sign-Off Form H with photos attached.

Constructing and establishing any civil or landscape asset requires refinement and repair of defects to ensure
compliance with the design. Table 3.13 outlines potential construction and establishment failures or defects for
bioretention systems and suggests ways to rectify the problems. The table focuses on construction and
establishment defects and on functional failures that can occur following the completion of construction and
provides rectification actions. The table is not exhaustive and will be updated in future revisions of this guideline.
The bioretention designer or external expert should be consulted when the following failures occur to confirm
rectification actions.
Table 3.12: Potential failure scenarios for bioretention systems and rectification actions
DEFECT OR FAI LU RE CAUS ES RECTIFICATION
Ponding water on surface or Blinding or blockage of filter media surface Confirm surface blinding or blockage by scraping back the surface sediment to reach the bioretention
reduce filtration rate with sediment. filter media filling the void with water to see if the water drains. In-situ hydraulic conductivity testing
should be undertaken at the surface, middle and bottom of the filter media profile in accordance with
Practice Note 1: In-Situ Measurement of Hydraulic Conductivity (Hatt and Le Coustumer, 2008).

More detailed assessment may be required by:
- collecting samples at the surface and at depth at a number of locations in the system
- testing samples for particle size distribution and saturated hydraulic conductivity in accordance
with the Guideline Specifications for Soil Media in Bioretention Systems (FAWB, 2008).
Rectification of the system is required if:
- the in-situ hydraulic conductivity testing confirms low conductivity at the surface and high
conductivity at depth
- the particle distribution size analysis finds finer material at the surface.
Ponding water on surface or Rectification options include:

reduce filtration rate (cont).
- identifying the source of the sediment and rectifying
- removing the surface layer of sediment and re-installing the filter media to achieve the design
surface level, then mulching and replanting
- planting with rushes, grasses and trees to increase plant and root density to break up the surface.
The bioretention system must drain according to design requirements within 12 months. If it does not
drain, remove the surface sediment and re-mulch and replant the system.
Structural collapse as a result of using Confirm structural collapse by:

incorrect media or poor installation.
- collecting samples at the surface, middle and bottom of the filter media at a number of locations in
Structural collapse means the soil’s structure the system
is unable to hold fine soil in place so the fines
- testing the samples for particle size distribution and saturated hydraulic conductivity in accordance
move to a certain location in the profile of the
with the Guideline Specifications for Soil Media in Bioretention Systems (FAWB, 2008)
filter media, therefore blocking the
- completing in-situ hydraulic conductivity testing at the surface, middle and bottom of the filter
movement of water.
media profile in accordance with Practice Note 1: In-Situ Measurement of Hydraulic Conductivity
(Hatt and Le Coustumer, 2008).
If the testing finds the filter media has structurally collapsed, rectification is required.
Rectification options include:
- removing the filter media and installing new media that meets the specifications, mulch and replant
(preferred)
- planting with rushes, grasses and trees to break-up the surface (alternative).
The bioretention system must drain according to the design requirements within 12 months. If it does
not drain, remove the surface sediment and re-mulch and replant the system.

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Ponding water on surface or Blockage of transition or drainage layer with To confirm if the transition layer or drainage layer is blocked with sediment, a geotech specialist can
reduce filtration rate (cont). sediment. create boreholes at a number of locations in the bioretention system to allow the collection of samples
for particle size distribution analysis. Permeability testing should also be undertaken at the transition
layer and drainage layer to confirm hydraulic conductivity.
If the transition layer or drainage layer is blocked with sediment (i.e. contains significant fine soils),
remove the bioretention media and refill the system with filter media and plant out in accordance with
these guidelines.
Filter cloth around under-drainage or Filter cloth should not be installed around the under-drain or between any of the bioretention media
between the filter media and transition layer/ layers. The Sign-Off Forms and photos will confirm that filter cloth has not be used.
drainage layer is clogged with fine sediment.
If filter cloth has been used and is clogged with fine sediment, remove the filter cloth and the
bioretention media. Refill the bioretention system with filter media and plant out in accordance with
these guidelines.
Blockage of under-drains. Clean out under-drains with standard plumbing equipment. The bioretention system should drain after
cleaning. If system does not drain, then investigate blockage of the transition or drainage layers,
blinding of filter media, or structural collapse of the filter media.
Scour and short-circuiting of Under-drains that are not sealed into outlet To rectify (Figure 3.16):
flows at outlet pit pit can result in flow short-circuiting down
- seal the under-drainage pipes into the pit
the side of pit and scouring the filter media,
the transition layer and the drainage layer. - dig out the eroded sections of the bioretention profile including the filter media, transition layer and
drainage layer well beyond the bounds of the scour

- replace the drainage layer, transition layer and filter media and compact the layers
- install a layer of filter cloth to the pit and extend it down the side of the pit into the filter media to a
depth of300 mm, extending the filter cloth horizontally out into the filter media by 300–500 mm as
shown in the sketch to minimises the risk of scour down the side of the pit.
Scour will eventually occur around any apron To rectify:

or concrete spill on the outlet pit as it
- dig out the eroded sections of the bioretention profile including the filter media, transition layer
impossible to compact filter media up under
and drainage layer well beyond the bounds the scour
the apron or spill.
- remove the concrete apron or spill
- install a layer of filter cloth to the pit and extend it down the side of the pit into the filter media to a
depth of 300 mm, extending the filter cloth horizontally out into the filter media by 300–500 mm as
shown in the sketch to minimises the risk of scour down the side of the pit
- replace the drainage layer, transition layer and filter media and compact the layers.
Scour and short-circuiting at the Erosion of the bioretention batters. To rectify:

edge of bioretention system
Filter cloth is not extended up to the batters - dig out the eroded sections of the bioretention profile including the filter media, transition layer and
of the bioretention system resulting in scour drainage layer well beyond the bounds the scour
down the outside edge of the filter cloth.
- install new filter cloth from the base of the bioretention up the edge to extend at least 500 mm up
the batters and pin in place
- replace the drainage layer, transition layer and filter media and compact the layers
- place topsoil over the filter cloth on the batters.
Scour and short-circuiting at In many situations, the conceptual design of To rectify:

bioretention walls bioretention systems does not allow space Option 1 (Figure 3.17)
for batters and designers are forced to use
- place filter fabric on the wall and extend at least 1 m onto filter media
vertical walls. Where the walls extend down
the side of the filter media there is a risk of - install filter media or top soil over the filter cloth to create a batter against the wall, extending the
flow scouring the filter media at the interface top of the batter well above the likely flood level
with the wall. This is a particular concern - wrap the filter cloth back over the top of the batter and place more topsoil on the surface
with rock walls or walls without a flat
- compact, mulch and plant.

vertical surface.
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Scour and short-circuiting at Option 2 (Figure 3.18)

bioretention walls (cont).
- dig out the eroded sections of the bioretention profile including the filter media, transition layer and
drainage layer to at least 0.5 m away from the wall
- install clay within the 0.5 m space, from the edge of the filter media to the wall
- compact the clay to ensure there is no potential flow connection from the wall to the drainage layers
of the bioretention system
- install filter fabric up the vertical edge of clay and across flat surface
- install the drainage layer, transition layer and filter media and compact the layers
- mulch and plant out.
Scour around the high-flow weir If the weir crest and grouted rock protection Extend the concrete weir crest and grouted rock batters up the batters to at least 500 mm above the
is not extended up the batters of the weir invert.
bioretention system, scour may occur around
the edge of the weir as flows will skirt the
weir.
Scour of bioretention batters Lateral surface flows enter the bioretention Direct the lateral flows to small rock-lined channels that feed down the batters to the bioretention
system from a small catchment directly system. Plant out scoured zones. Where required, organic mesh or netting may be required to avoid
adjacent to the bioretention. erosion of the batters.
Failure of the bioretention bunds Failure of bioretention bunds can occur Rectify scour and ensure geotech certification of the bund for stability and capacity. If necessary, raise
through scours and overflows. The bunds can the bund well above the top of the potential flood levels in the bioretention system and provide rock

also fail if they are constructed too low. protection in high velocity locations.
Damaged to clean-out or missing The systems may be vandalised, for example, Replace inspection caps and ensure they are secured with screws to reduce the risk of vandalism.
inspection caps inspection caps may be removed.
Failure of plants Plants may fail to thrive if the filter media Review Bioretention Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Form C to confirm the media meets the
does not meet specifications, particularly for specifications outlined in Section 3.5.
water-hold capacity and organic content.
Collect samples within the bioretention system at the surface, middle and base of the filter media
approximately every 250 m2. Complete the FAWB tests on the samples in accordance with Section 3.5
and compare the results with the specification.
If the installed media does not meet the specifications, seek advice from laboratory on how to ensure
the specifications are met. In-situ amelioration may be possible; however, if not the filter media will
need to be removed and replaced.
Inappropriate watering during establishment If plants are alive, irrigate according to the recommendations in Section 3.6.6 or install a riser at the
of plants. outlet pit to raise water levels in the bioretention system to just below the root of the plants.
If the plants have died, mulch, replant and irrigate according to Section 3.6.6 or install a riser to raise
water levels in the bioretention system.
Lack of mulch or fertiliser during If plants are alive, apply small quantity of liquid fertiliser and apply much. If plants have died, mix
establishment of plants. compost or organics into the top 50–100 mm of the filter media, mulch and replant.
Poor plant cover of less than five to six plants Review species selection in consultation with the bioretention designer and select an alternative
per m2. species that is better suited to the subject site.
Excessive weed cover. Remove weeds manually to protect native plants. Avoid weed seed set by pro-actively maintaining and
reducing weeds from the edge of the bioretention system.

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CERTIFICATION WHO SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION
Civil certification Site (civil) Bioretention designer’s certification of functional elements

superintendent
Soil supplier’s certification of filter media, transition layers and drainage

layers
NATA-registered laboratory test results and delivery dockets
Completed and signed Sign-Off Forms A, B, C, D, E and F
As-constructed survey, drawings and photos
Landscape Site (landscape) Bioretention designer’s or ecologist’s certification of plant species

certification superintendent
As-constructed drawings showing final species and plant numbers
Completed and signed Sign-Off Forms G and H
Figure 3.16: Rectification of scour and short- 3.12 Certification

circuiting of flows at outlet pit Certification is a major issue for the implementation
of bioretention systems. Because the systems are
essentially civil infrastructure with a landscape overlay,
the responsibility for compliance, certification and asset
handover is not well defined. Developers, designers,
contractors and local authorities have different
approaches for dealing with these issues, resulting in
confusion within the industry.
Figure 3.17: Option 1 for rectification of scour

These guidelines and the Bioretention Construction and
and short-circuiting at bioretention walls
Establishment Sign-Off Forms attached are designed to
clarify certification requirements. Table 3.14 summarises
the recommended civil and landscape certification
requirements for bioretention systems.
Figure 3.18: Option 2 for rectification of scour

and short-circuiting at bioretention walls
3.13 Compliance The tender and contract documents can refer to the
Compliance of bioretention systems are a major relevant sections of this guideline. If requirements for
challenge for local authorities. the Sign-Off Forms are not achieved, then the contract is
not fulfilled and payment should be withheld.
The Bioretention Construction and Establishment
Sign-Off Forms and the certification requirements 3.14.2 Ownership and handover
outlined in Section 3.12 provide the basis for compliance. A common problem with the construction and
To support the final compliance inspection for practical establishment of WSUD systems is ownership and
completion the required documentation includes: maintenance during both the handover of the asset
• completed Construction and Establishment from the civil contractor to civil contractor and the
Sign-Off Forms building phase. These issues must be considered when
establishing the contracts:
• as-constructed survey and photos
• Handover from civil contractor to landscape
(as per Sign-Off Form requirements)
contractor — This handover process can take months
• site superintendent certification to occur due to a number of reasons, for example,
• bioretention designer certification. separate operational works approval processes for
landscape design. The bioretention system may
Additionally, it is recommended compliance inspections remain un-vegetated and unmanaged during this
are undertaken at the following hold points: period. Sediment accumulation and damage will during
• pre-start meeting rainfall events and maintenance or rectification will be
• inspection of the bioretention with under-drainage required.
installed prior to installation of media (Step 12)
If there will be a delay between the civil works and
• practical completion or on-maintenance of civil works landscape works, then it is recommended a maintenance
(at Step 22 and, where applicable, Step 28 and when contract is established (or maintenance allowance
Sign-Off Forms A, B, C, D, E and F are complete) is made in the civil contract) for inspection, cleanout
• practical completion or on-maintenance of landscape and rectification of the civil works during this period.
works (STEP 36 and Sign-Off Form G) This could be costed as a monthly allowance or on a
• final inspection or off- maintenance following per inspection or a per maintenance event basis. It is
landscape establishment (STEP 40 and Sign-Off recommended the civil contractor is responsible for
Form H). this work and the contract reflects the inspection or
3.14 Civil and landscape contracts • Building phase maintenance — During the building
phase, sediment accumulation and damage will occur.
3.14.1 Contracts It is important that regular inspections occur after
rainfall events and that appropriate cleanout and
To ensure all parties are aware of the certification rectification is undertaken. It is recommended a
requirements, the Tender and Civil and Landscape maintenance contract is established for this purpose.
Contracts must include: The maintenance contract could be costed as a
• construction and establishment specifications monthly allowance or on a per inspection or per
(provided in Sections 3.4, 3.5 and 3.6 of these maintenance event basis and the work can be
guidelines) undertaken by the civil or landscape contractor or a
• preferred construction and establishment method maintenance contractor. Once 80–90% of the building
(see Section 3.8) is complete, the maintenance contract would cease
and landscape works would commence.
• Sign-Off Forms with the as-constructed survey and
drawing requirements
• certification requirements listed in Table 3.14.
3.15 Sign-Off Forms
Sign-Off Forms provided outline the key items to be
reviewed when delivering and inspecting bioretention
systems. The Sign-Off Forms follow the construction
methods provided in Sections 3.9 and 3.10. The
forms are to be used by contractors, construction
site superintendents, designers and local authority
compliance inspectors to ensure all the elements of
the bioretention system have been constructed in
accordance with the design. If an item receives an ‘N’ in
the ‘Satisfactory Criteria’, indicating that an element is
‘not satisfactory’, appropriate actions must be specified
to rectify the construction issue before final inspection
sign-off is given.

Sign-Off Forms form the basis of the certification and
compliance requirements for bioretention systems.
They are designed for easy incorporation into asset
databases managed by Councils or private organisations
such as body corporates.
Sign-Off Forms are:

• Bioretention System Construction and Establishment
• FORM A — Earthworks and Functional Structures
• FORM B — Under-drainage
• FORM C — Bioretention Media
• FORM D — Finished Levels
• FORM E — Coarse Sediment Forebay
• FORM F — Protective Measures
• FORM G — Landscape Installation
• FORM H — Landscape Establishment

Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms,
which are relevant at the time of writing this guideline.
BIORETENTION SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION & ESTABLISHMENT SIGN-OFF FORMS
Asset I.D. DA No.
System location:
Area: Catchment Area (ha): Bioretention Area (ha):
Civil drawing no.
Developer
Site superintendent
(landscape)
Civil engineer
Landscape architect
Civil contractor
NAME OF
SIGN-OFF FORM DATE COMPLETED SIGNATORY & ROLE SIGNATURE
Pre-Start Meeting
Form A — Earthworks &

Form B — Under-Drainage
Form C — Bioretention Media
Form D — Finished Levels
Form E — Coarse Sediment

Forebay
Form F — Protective
Measures
Form G — Landscape
Installation
Form H — Landscape
Establishment
PRE-START MEETING
List pre-start meeting attendees who are to sign indicating they have attended the meeting and understand the design intent,
construction and establishment process.
Location
Date
Developer
Site
Civil engineer
Landscape architect
Civil contractor
Other
Other
Other
FORM A — EARTHWORKS AND FUNCTIONAL (HYDRAULIC) STRUCTURES
Purpose: To ensure earthworks bulking out, trimming and profiling and the key levels of functional (hydraulic) structures are in
accordance with design drawings and specifications. The earthworks and structures dictate the movement of stormwater
through the bioretention system and are a critical element in the function of the system.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
As constructed survey completed and

Set-out of system is correct
Base levels are at correct elevation

(±50 mm)
Base at correct grading (0.5%)
Punch out holes in overflow pit are

correct size, correct level and above
invert level of outlet pipe (+25 mm)
Overflow pit is correct size and crest and

invert is at correct level (±25 mm)
Outlet pipe invert levels are correct

(upstream and downstream) (±25 mm)
Outlet pipe is free draining
Overflow weir (if required) is correct

length and at correct level ±25 mm)
Overflow weir (if required) is keyed

into bund
Bunds/embankments surrounding the

system are at correct levels or above
HOLD POINT: Superintendent and bioretention designer inspection and sign-off before proceeding.
Date: Date:
FORM B — UNDER-DRAINAGE
Purpose: To ensure under-drainage is installed correctly before the bioretention media is installed.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Base of system free from debris
Liner (typically filter cloth) correctly

installed
There is no fabric ‘sock’ around the under-

drainage
Correct under-drainage has been

supplied and slotted at 2 mm or smaller
Under-drainage pipes are laid at the

correct spacing (small bioretention
system 1.5 m, large system 2 m)
Required grade (verified using level or

string line)
Under-drainage pipes laid at required

grade (verified using level or string line to
achieve design level ±25 mm and 0.5%
grade)
All junctions and connections have been

appropriately sealed
Top of clean out points at design level (i.e.

approximately 50–150 mm above filter
media surface )
Date: Date:
FORM C — BIORETENTION MEDIA
Purpose: To ensure that the media placed in the system meets the required specifications and that there is a record of the
media being delivered to site.
To ensure media layers are installed correctly and meet the design and specification requirements.
SOURCING, TESTING AND SUPPLYING BIORETENTION MEDIA
ACTION (IF
DRAINAGE LAYER CHECKED SATISFACTORY INITIAL
UNSATISFACTORY)
Meets the specifications
Meets the required hydraulic

conductivity (4,000 mm/hr)
Delivery supply docket certifies that the

material delivered is the material tested
(delivery docket attached)
TRANSITION LAYER SUPPLY
Meets the specifications
Supplier certification provided

(certification attached)

FILTER MEDIA SUPPLY
Meets the FAWB’s Guideline

Specifications for Soil Media in
Bioretention Systems (2008)
Meets the required hydraulic

conductivity (100–500 mm/hr, 750 mm/hr
maximum)
Frequency of laboratory testing

completed in accordance with Section 3.5
(results of testing attached)
Supplier certification provided

(certification attached)

HOLD POINT: Superintendent or bioretention designer inspection and review of test results and certifications before proceeding.
FORM C — BIORETENTION MEDIA (CONT .)
INSTALLATION OF BIORETENTION MEDIA
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Base of system free from debris
Drainage layer (fine gravel) installed to

correct depth (± 25 mm)
Transition layer (coarse sand) installed to

correct depth (± 25 mm)
Placement of filter media completed to

avoid compaction of media and using at
least two lifts
Filter media installed to correct depth
Light, even compaction applied to

remove air gaps (e.g. light roller or single
pass with a ‘pozitrack’ bobcat)
Spreader bar used to flatten surface of

filter media
Sediment fences in place
INSPECTION: Superintendent and bioretention designer inspection and sign-off to occur while installation of media is
occurring. Photos must be taken by the superintendent, the bioretention designer or the contractor.
NB: Laboratory test results, certification, delivery dockets and photos attached.
Date: Date:
FORM D — FINISHED LEVELS
Purpose: To ensure finished levels of system surface and bunds are correct and meet the design.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Landscaping topsoil applied to

surrounding bunds to achieve design
levels
As-constructed survey of system surface

and surrounding bunds completed
Final constructed levels are consistent

with design levels
Under-drainage clean-outs extended 50–

150 mm above filter media
Under-drainage pipes flushed to remove

initial ingress of material
Date: Date:
FORM E — COARSE SEDIMENT FOREBAY
Purpose: To ensure the coarse sediment forebay is constructed correctly.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Extent of coarse sediment forebay

correctly set out
Rocks to be used to line base of forebay

are correct size and shape
Base of constructed forebay is flat and

set at the correct level below the surface
of the filter media
Rocks placed for energy dissipation are

of appropriate size and are in correct
location
Interface between forebay and filter

media is structurally sound and not prone
to collapse
HOLD POINT: Superintendent or bioretention designer inspection and sign-off before proceeding.
Date: Date:
FORM F — PROTECTIVE MEASURES
Purpose: To ensure protective measures are correctly installed to protect the bioretention system while building is occurring in the catchment.
Protection option adopted (Option 1, 2 or 3)
O PTIO N 1 — SURFAC E P R OT E CT I O N D U R I N G ACT I ON ( I F

CHECKED SAT I S FACTORY I NI TIA L
B UILD IN G PHASE U NSAT I S FACTORY )
Continuous sediment fences installed around

perimeter of filter media and top of batter.
Where landscape works are not to commence

immediately then cover batters with filter cloth.
Protective covering (filter cloth + 25 mm topsoil +

turf) installed across entire filter media area of
system.
O PTIO N 2 — BYPAS S A N D E A R LY ACT I ON ( I F

CHECKED SAT I S FACTORY I NITIA L
ESTAB LISHM EN T U NSAT I S FACTORY )

perimeter of filter media and top of batter.
Where landscape works are not to commence

immediately then cover batters with filter cloth.
Temporary bund installed (where required) to

prevent stormwater runoff from entering bulk of
system. Bund keyed into batters of bioretention
and crest level higher than pits and weirs.
Temporary protective covering (filter cloth + 25

mm topsoil + turf) installed within bunded area.
O PTIO N 3 – SED IM E N T BAS I N A N D CHECKED SAT I S FACTORY ACT I ON ( I F I N ITIA L

B IO RETEN TIO N FUN CT I O N U NSAT I S FACTORY )

perimeter of filter media and top of batter
Sediment basin installed upstream of bioretention

in accordance with either (including hydraulic
structures):
• WSUD Technical Design Guidelines for SEQ

(SEQHWP)
• Local erosion and sediment control guidelines or

Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control
(IECA, 2008)
Suitable access provided to sediment basin for

clean out
Bioretention system installed downstream of

sediment basin
Protective covering (filter cloth + 25mm topsoil +

turf) installed across entire filter media area of
basin.
NB: Photos attached.
Date: Date:
FORM G — LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Correct mulch has been supplied
Mulch applied to correct depth and

secured

and maturity (300 mm min)

planting density (min 6 plants/m2)
As constructed drawings marked up with

Mulch is clear of plant stems by

approximately 50 mm
HOLD POINT: Superintendent AND bioretention designer inspection and sign-off before proceeding.
Date: Date:
FORM H — LANDSCAPE ESTABLISHMENT
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
PLANT ESTABLISHMENT
Replanting occurred as required to

replace failed plants
Plants successfully established plants

propagation is occurring.
1. Survivorship greater than 90%

2. 80% coverage of system
3. Preferably more than one species per
macrophyte zone
6–10
4. At least 5 plants/m2 (preferably 6–10
plants/m2)
5. Plant height of at least 50%. This can
be measures through the use of
marker or stakes through the
bioretention
6. Propagation is occurring (more than
2–3 stems, seeding)
7. No weeds.
Growth and maturity should be recorded

through three-monthly photo logs every
500 m2.
HOLD POINT: Superintendent AND bioretention designer inspection and sign-off.
Date: Date:
FOUR CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS
4.1 Constructed Wetlands
Natural wetlands are places in the landscape that are of pollutants, or actually become a source of pollutants
inundated with water for all, or at least part, of the year. itself. The essential elements for a constructed
The plants that grow in natural wetlands adapt so wetland are:
they can survive inundation or wet and dry cycles. • the correct mix of open water and planted zones
The capacity of wetlands to absorb pollutants has
led wetlands to be artificially constructed to improve • the correct installation of hydraulic structures
the quality of stormwater in urban environments.
• good quality growing soil and media for plants
Constructed wetlands are used as biological filters
that bring together a range of processes, both physical, • the right plants in the right locations
chemical and biological, to improve the quality
of stormwater. • effective establishment and pro-active maintenance
to ensure the wetland functions in the long term.
As complex and highly active biological systems,
wetlands use a variety of processes to intercept, Constructed wetlands consist of an inlet zone,
transform and remove pollutants from stormwater. a sediment basin to remove coarse sediments,
They are robust and dynamic systems able to cope a macrophyte zone1 and a high-flow bypass channel
with large variations in flow, climate and nutrients. to protect the macrophyte zone from scour and
However, constructed wetlands need to be built to vegetation damage. Figure 4.1 shows the key elements
support the best conditions for plant growth and of a constructed wetland system. Further description
the removal of pollutants. of the elements of constructed wetland systems is
provided in the WSUD Technical Guidelines for South
From the perspective of stormwater management, an
East Queensland.
effective constructed wetland enables the processes for
removing pollutants under varying hydraulic conditions.
If an element is not considered appropriately, the
wetland may fail to establish, offer limited treatment
Figure 4.1: Typical components of a constructed wetland
1 A shallow, heavily vegetated area to remove fine particulates and to take up soluble pollutants.
4.2 Roles and responsibilities A pre-start meeting with all the stakeholders identified
While constructed wetlands have been used for some in Table 4.1 must be held to:
time to remove stormwater pollutants, there are many • explain the function of the wetland
areas where better construction and establishment can
enhance pollutant removal, aesthetics and reduce the • highlight issues and risks associated with construction
need for reworking. and establishment
Knowing who is responsible for different elements of • talk through the preferred construction and
construction, and particularly establishment, is critical. establishment approach
Strong and ongoing communication between designers,
• explain the as-constructed survey or drawing,
superintendents and contractors is critical. Table 4.1
summarises recommended roles and responsibilities for
constructing, establishing and certifying constructed
wetlands.
Site superintendents have the primary responsibility for

supervising the construction of WSUD.
Table 4.1: Roles and responsibilities for wetland construction and establishment
Wetland designer Design and The wetland designer designs the wetland. They ultimately provide final
construction certification of the constructed system and help to solve construction issues.
troubleshooting
Landscape Design and The landscape architect develops landscape and planting plans in association
architect landscape with the wetland designer as well as other elements such as boardwalks,
viewing platforms and edge treatments.
Civil engineer Design civil The civil engineers design the civil works related to the wetland such as edge
components structures or overflow pits.
Site Supervise The site superintendent is responsible for all site works associated with
superintendent construction delivering the construction plans. The site superintendent coordinates the
(civil and construction and certification processes.
landscape)
Civil contractor Civil works and The civil contractor is responsible for all civil components of the system —
install bulk earthworks, construction of hydraulic structures and other structures
such as bridges and footpaths. They are also required to protect the system
from sediment until the landscape contractors plant vegetation.
Geotech specialist Design and The geotech specialist is responsible for the design and certification of liners
certification of lining and embankments.
and embankments
Landscape Landscape The landscape contractor plants the vegetation and may also be involved in
contractor installation and some edge details in areas of high amenity.
inspection
Local government Compliance The compliance officer represents the interests of the local authority to
compliance officer inspections ensure the system is built and established according to approved construction
plans and they certify the designs.
4.3 Timing should target a suitably dry period for construction or
The timing of civil and landscape works for constructed have a diversion system in place to isolate the site.
wetlands must be carefully planned to ensure the Approximate construction periods are:
construction and establishment process, and the
- small constructed wetlands of <100m2 : 7 days
downstream waterways, are not impacted by
stormwater and sediment. This requires consideration - large constructed wetlands of >100m2 : up to 2
of the following: months
• Construction phase erosion and sediment control: Civil works should progress quickly to stabilise and
Before the construction works begin, ensure the area protect the constructed wetland against storm events.
is stabilised and appropriate erosion and sediment This requires all materials to be ordered and delivered to
control is present in the catchment. Erosion and the site and protective measures installed (diversion
sediment control (ESC) measures must be in place in systems) before construction starts.
accordance with local government requirements and a • Landscape works: Landscape works for constructed
recognised guideline such as Best Practice Erosion wetlands should start as soon as possible after the
and Sediment Control (IECA, 2008) and upstream civil works are complete and the building protection
flows diverted away from the works area. The civil measure are installed. This limits the risk of erosion
works contractor and site superintendent should and sediment-laden runoff entering the system. Close
consider a number of things: coordination between the civil contractor and the
landscape contractor is required. The responsibility
- Whether the constructed wetland can form the
for the constructed wetland site during handover
sediment basin for the catchment during the
between the civil works and the landscape works must
construction phase.
be clear. Responsibility for any remedial works if the
- If the wetland is not used as the sediment basin for constructed wetland is damaged should be explicit.
the catchment during construction phase, then a Section 4.7 discusses further the protection of
construction phase sedimentation basin maintained constructed wetlands during the building phase.
upslope of the wetland may give additional
protection if effective erosion control is not
achieved on exposed soil surfaces. 4.4 Civil considerations
- The site must comply with erosion control standards and specifications
when construction phase sediment basins are It is critical that wetlands are delivered in accordance
decommissioned or transformed into constructed with the design. Changes made during construction and
wetlands or other stormwater management devices. establishment can result in a compromised wetland.
- ESC measures downslope of constructed wetlands Wetland vegetation is extremely sensitive to water
must be operational during construction of depths and any proposed modifications during
constructed wetlands. The ESC measures must construction must be approved by the designer.
remain in place until the constructed wetlands are A number of critical civil works issues that require
stabilised against soil erosion. particular attention are:
• Rainfall: When the civil works begin, stormwater
1. construction phase erosion and sediment control
inflows can cause irreparable damage to constructed
wetlands. If it rains when the macrophyte zone has 2. hydraulic structures — high-flow bypasses, transfer
been planted with tubestock and there is no diversion pits and outlet structures
structure installed then sediment laden runoff can
3. impervious liners
enter the system. If this occurs, the sediment may
smother the tubestock plants and change the depth 4. earthworks
profile of the wetland meaning the accumulated
sediment and plants may need to be removed. 5. tolerances
Therefore, the timing of civil works must be planned to
6. inlet pond and maintenance access.
protect the macrophyte zone from any stormwater
inflows during construction if the zone has been
planted.The civil contractor and site superintendent
4.4.1 Controlling erosion and sediment 4.4.2 Hydraulic structures
during the construction phase Correct hydraulic function is critical for constructed
During the construction phase of the development (see wetlands to operate successfully. Most wetland
Section 4.6), the bulked out constructed wetland will, in hydraulic structures are relatively simple; however, the
many cases, be used and maintained as sediment basin. fine tolerances required can be easily overlooked, having
The timing of decommissioning of the sediment basin a dramatic effect on wetland vegetation and function.
and transforming it into a wetland must be carefully All structures must be constructed in accordance with
considered. The site must comply with erosion and the design. Any potential changes to the design must
sediment control standards of the local authority before be confirmed in writing with the wetland designers
the sediment basin is decommissioned or its before construction starts. Once constructed, the
effectiveness is reduced. This requires the following hydraulic structures should be surveyed and reviewed
issues to be considered: by the designers before finer shaping of the earthworks
are undertaken.
• The catchment draining to the wetland and the area
adjacent must be protected by erosion and sediment Even for very large wetlands, very fine tolerances
control (ESC). Turfing and hydromulching footways and (<25 mm) are required for all the hydraulic structures
allotments are the most effective way to minimise soil (see Section 4.4.5 for tolerances). Table 4.2 summarises
erosion. the hydraulic structures, the preferred designs and
construction requirements. If the proposed design is
• ESC measures downslope of the proposed wetland missing any of the hydraulic structures, or varies from
must be in place and operational before, and during, the descriptions provided in the table, the designer
construction of the wetland. should be consulted in writing for guidance.
Further guidance on erosion and sediment control is
provided in:
• Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control

(IECA, 2008)
• Manual for Erosion and Sediment Control

(Maroochy Shire Council, 2007).
Erosion and sediment control during construction must

be delivered according to an approved Erosion and
Sediment Control Plan for the site and guided by local
authority requirements, a soil scientist, stormwater
superintendent or the environmental superintendent.
After the civil construction of the wetland is complete,

the macrophyte zone should be isolated from inflows to
allow vegetation to establish. This can be achieved by
creating and stabilising the inlet zone and the high-flow
bypass to capture coarse sediment from incoming flows
and bypass those flows around the macrophyte zone.
See Section 4.7.1 for details.
Table 4.2: Constructed wetland hydraulic structures
HYDRAULIC DESCRIPTION DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS

STRUCTURE
Inlet zone This structure transfers flows from Overflow pit requirements:
connection to an inlet zone, or pond, to the
- concrete construction
the macrophyte macrophyte zone. It controls the
zone (overflow water levels in the inlet pond and the - letter box or dome grate (not flush grate)
pit and pipe) maximum flow rate that can reach - crest level typically 100–300 mm above the macrophyte zone
the macrophyte zone. water level and 300 mm+ below the high-flow bypass weir
level.
It consists of an overflow pit and
pipe sized to convey a 1-year ARI Pipe connection requirements include scour protection at the
stormwater event. outlet to the macrophyte zone (refer to design for details).
High-flow The weir is located in the inlet zone High-flow weirs need to operate under high-flow conditions
bypass weir (pond) and enables stormwater to requiring:
safely discharge from the inlet zone
- a mass concrete weir crest typically 500 mm deep with
around the macrophyte zone in
reinforcing
periods of high flows.
- grouted rock protection at least on the downstream face of
the crest to the toe of the batters
- concrete and rock protection extending up batters to avoid

scour at the edges of the weir.
High-flow The channel protects the wetland The bypass channel typically consists of turf but can be formed
bypass channel from large, infrequent flows by a number of landscapes. Where turf is adopted, it should be
bypassing excess flows around the laid perpendicular to the flow direction and pinned in place.
wetland, reducing the risk of damage
from erosion, scour and re-
mobilisation of pollutants.
Macrophyte zone The riser outlet is designed to The riser outlet should be located in a pit on the embankment
outlet (riser outlet) provide a uniform detention time for or bund of the wetland. This allows access for inspection and
water passing through the maintenance. A submerged connection minimises the risk of
macrophyte zone of the wetland. litter accumulation. The riser can be formed through either an
upstand pipe with holes or a plate with holes. See Figure 4.2.
Macrophyte The maintenance drain allows the The maintenance drain consists of a pipe connected to the ‘low
zone outlet macrophyte zone to be drained and points’ or deep-water zones of the wetland. The pipe passes
(maintenance also enables adjustments in the through the macrophyte zone outlet pit. A valve is installed on
drain) water level while vegetation the pipe to allow the macrophyte zone to drain.
establishes.
Macrophyte zone These outlet pipes drain from the If the outlet pipe is drowned during construction, consult with
outlet pipes macrophyte zone outlet pit to the the wetland designers.
receiving environment.
The outlet pipe should incorporate a seepage collar.
It is important that wetlands are free
draining to the downstream
environment.
Figure 4.2: Example of riser located in a pit Following installation of the liner, hydraulic structures
involving pipe connections are constructed, often
through the impervious liner. It is critical that the
liner is intact at these connection points and adequate
attention is paid to establishing a waterproof seal.
4.4.4 Earthworks and trimming

Earthworks levels are critical for establishing wetlands
as they define the hydrologic regime the plants
experience. Allow for a minimum of 300 mm of lightly
compacted topsoil above the impervious liner.
In addition to the fine tolerances for the base of

wetlands, local depressions must be minimised so that
4.4.3 Impervious liner small puddles do not develop when water levels vary in
In most situations, constructed wetland systems are the wetland because they can become a mosquito-
designed to hold water permanently. If the wetland is breeding habitat. This is particularly important on edge
designed as a permanent waterbody, any leakage batters between the normal water level and the top
through the base may affect the vegetation and of the extended detention. Variations in finished
consequently the treatment function of the wetland. earthworks and topsoil levels must be limited to 50 mm
The in-situ soils require a geotechnical investigation within the different wetland zones.
to define the water retention capacity of the soils. If
permeability is greater than 1 x 10-9 m/s, an impervious 4.4.5 Tolerances
liner will be required for the wetland. The geotechnical It is important to emphasise the significance of
investigation should preferably occur as part of the tolerances when constructing wetlands. Table 4.3
design process to define liner requirements. summarises the construction considerations for each
element of a typical constructed wetland. It provides
Liners can either be constructed with in-situ clay,
construction tolerances that should be adopted for a
imported clay or an imported impervious liner.
successfully functioning wetland. An as-constructed
The design of the wetland will specify the liner type.
survey must be collected and placed on the as-
It must extend up the walls and batters to the operating
constructed drawings for sign-off, certification
water level as a minimum, and preferably to the top of
and compliance.
the extended detention.
When in-situ or imported clays are to be used, a

geotechnical expert must sample and test the liner
and certify that the construction meets permeability
requirements (i.e. less than 1 x 10-9 m/s) and that the
wetland will hold water. The liner is installed as part of
the bulk earthworks. Using on-site clays is preferred
with a minimum depth of 300 mm compacted in two 150
mm layers. The geotechnical expert must then complete
in-situ permeability and compaction tests and certify
the wetland will hold water.
If artificial liners are used (e.g. geosynthetic bentonite

clay or an HDPE liner), a geotechnical engineer must
certify the requirements and specifications of the
product. The liner must be installed in accordance with
the supplier’s instructions and appropriate tests
undertaken to certify that the liner is watertight.
Table 4.3: Constructed wetland tolerances
CONSTRUCTED CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS TOLERANCE METHOD OF

WETLAND SURVEY
ELEMENT
Hydraulic Hydraulic structures within constructed wetlands control ± 25 mm Survey*

structures the movement of stormwater through the system. The
construction of these structures must ensure that design
levels are achieved. The tolerance given applies to:
• inlet pipes
• inlet zone connections (pit and pipe)
• outlet riser
• outlet pipe (upstream and downstream)
• bypass weir
• maintenance pipe and valves.
Earthworks (base The bathymetry or final earthworks through all elements of ± 50 mm Survey*
of wetland) the constructed wetland is critical. The establishment of
wetland vegetation relies on correct water depths. The
tolerance provided relates to all earthworks through the
wetland and must be measured at the surface of the
topsoil.
Embankments or The embankment or bunds around the wetland act to hold ± 50 mm Survey*
bunds stormwater within the extended detention during rainfall
events and, where required, force larger rainfall events into
the hydraulic structures. Therefore, the crest level on the
embankments or bunds is important.
* Land or engineering by qualified surveyor.
4.4.6 Maintenance access • For slopes less than 1 in 4, access should be reinforced
Access to the constructed wetland is important for concrete from the base of the inlet pond to 0.5 m
maintenance. In particular, the inlet zone (pond) requires above the standing water level. From 0.5 m above the
a track that is suitable for heavy machinery to remove water level, and upward, the access can be formed with
debris and for de-silting as well as an area for de- gravel or reinforced turf.
watering removed sediments. If sediment removal • Where maintenance access to the inlet pond cannot be
requires earthmoving equipment to enter the basin, then provided, suitable access and space should be allowed
a stable ramp suitable for heavy plant will be required for a sucker truck to remove sediment. This option is
into the base of the inlet zone. The width of the access subject to approval by the local authority.
into the inlet pond should be a minimum of 3 m with the It is recommended that the inlet zone is constructed
following preferred surface finishes: with a hard (i.e. concrete or rock) bottom to assist with
• For slopes greater than 1 in 4, access should be maintenance. This allows excavator operators to detect
reinforced concrete designed in accordance with local when they have reached the base of the inlet zone during
council requirements to support machinery. Surface desilting operations.
finishes can be applied for landscape purposes. Macrophyte zones require access for weeding and
replanting as well as regular inspections of the outlet
pit. Commonly, these access tracks can be incorporated
with walking paths around the wetland.
4.5 Landscape considerations purchased from a soil supplier and must still comply
and specifications with the AS 4419.
There are a number of key issues to consider for the 4.5.1.2 AMENDMENT AND TREATMENTS
landscape works associated with constructed wetlands. Amending the topsoil to meet the specifications will be
guided by a laboratory and may involve adding fertiliser
4.5.1 Topsoil or organics to the soil.
The correct topsoil is crucial to successful macrophyte The topsoil covering the bed of the wetland should be
establishment and to the long-term functioning of the treated with gypsum or lime, which is standard on most
wetland. Wetland macrophytes prefer medium-textured construction sites. The gypsum or lime facilitates
silty- to sandy-loams that allow for easy rhizome and flocculation, reducing the turbidity of the water column.
root penetration. Although there are a few plants that With lower turbidity, higher levels of light are able to
can grow in in-situ heavy clays (e.g. phragmites), growth reach the plants, helping their growth and establishment.
is slow and the resulting wetland system will have a low The gypsum should be applied at a rate of 0.4 kg/m²,
species richness. preferably immediately prior to the initial inundation of
4.5.1.1 SPECIFICATION the wetland. Further application may be required at
Within the wetland macrophyte zone, topsoil should be intervals depending on the condition of the wetland and
placed to a depth of 300 mm. Design levels for wetlands the amount of exchangeable sodium.
are inclusive of topsoil, therefore, when earthworks are The application of lime may be required where the soil
occurring, allowance for 300 mm of topsoil is required. If testing identifies a potential soil pH problem (pH < 5) or
the wetland sits on in-situ clay, the base should be ripped where acid sulphate soils exist. The rate of application
before placing topsoil to avoid a distinct soil horizon. should be guided by soil test results, an Acid Sulphate
Topsoil must be tested by a NATA-accredited laboratory Management Plan and water quality (pH) monitoring of
in accordance with AS 4419—Soils for landscaping and the wetland and inflow.
garden use. If the proposed topsoil has high salt levels,
extremely low levels of carbon (<5%), or any other 4.5.2 Plant types and density
extreme that may retard plant growth, it should be The planting specification should be considered as part
rejected. The laboratory testing will identify any of the design and documented on the design drawings.
amelioration requirements. The results of the topsoil Planting design should be undertaken in collaboration
test must be given to the site superintendent and with a freshwater aquatic ecologist to consider:
wetland designer for review before the topsoil is
• water depth
installed.
• hydrology and hydrologic effectiveness
Topsoil for wetlands can be sourced from the in-situ
• potential drying periods
topsoil or from soil suppliers. During the wetland
construction process, topsoil will be stripped and • location within macrophyte zone.
stockpiled. Most terrestrial topsoils provide a good The WSUD Technical Guidelines for South East
substratum for wetlands, but laboratory soil testing in Queensland (SEQHWP, 2006) and the local authority
accordance with AS 4419 is necessary to ensure the should be consulted for more detail.
topsoil will support plant growth. If stockpiled topsoil is
It is important to use a relatively high density and
used, it must be approved by the laboratory and wetland
diversity of species. This ensures a higher likelihood of
designer and will need to be screened to remove any
successful establishment and quickly delivers a dense,
coarse organic matter.
mature planting, managing any potential weed issues.
Avoid excessively weed-ridden site soils, particularly Local authorities should be consulted for planting
soils containing aggressive pasture grasses tolerant of density requirements. The following is recommended
wetland conditions such as setaria and barnyard grass. as a minimum:
If these species are present, and no other sources of
• planting density of 6–10 plants/m2
topsoil exist, a minimum of 50 mm should be scraped
from the soil and discarded. • two species per macrophyte zone.
If the in-situ topsoil is not suitable and amending it If the design does not allow for these specifications,
not practical or cost effective, topsoil should be consult the designers.
4.5.3 Plant procurement Figure 4.3: Example of suitable mature tubestock
Vegetation used in constructed wetlands is typically
tubestock available from wholesale nurseries. Specialist
nurseries are familiar with supplying plants for WSUD
projects. Purchasing from specialist suppliers increases
the chances of obtaining the right plants in the correct
when specified plants are unavailable can be
problematic. If a change in species is necessary,
confirm any changes with the designers and document
the change in the as-constructed drawings. Ideally,
plant availability should be discussed at the site
inception meeting.
For large orders, it is recommended that periodic

inspection of the plant stock at the nursery is
undertaken to ensure the plants will be ready when
required. Consider:
• making it explicit at the time of ordering the plants

Both immature plants and plants that are too old can
that periodic inspections of plants will be required
be difficult to establish. While some species benefit
• checking that plants are being grown in clean, weed- from additional growing permitting further rhizome
and pest-free conditions development, many species of sedges and other wetland
• checking the roots of plants for fresh white roots plants will struggle to develop if they are old and
pot-bound. These plants will not establish well and
• ensuring that plants have a ‘hardening off’ phase
may remain stunted and be susceptible to predators
before delivery and that they are not taken directly
and disease.
from a shade house to the construction site.
Key things to look for in plant stock:
4.5.3.1 TIMING
Plant availability varies considerably in different regions • signs of pests and disease
and at different times of the year. Sufficient time must • signs of nutrient deficiency (i.e. yellow wilting leaves)
be given to order plants. Up to six months lead-time may
• root-bound plants
be required to ensure appropriate species are available.
If provenance plant stock, or plants originating from a • signs of new growth and general vigour
specific region or location, is required, up to 18 months • weeds
lead-time may be necessary to collect seed and
• clear labelling.
propagate the required plants.
Tubestock plants are usually supplied in a plastic
Certain species are very difficult or slow to propagate,
container with dimensions of 70–150 mm high and 50 –70
with some species only producing one batch of seedlings
mm wide. However, there is a large variation in tubestock
container size and price. A container with dimensions
nursery to avoid last minute substitutions due to species
of at least 90 x 50 x 50 mm is recommended.
not being available at the time of delivery.
These containers can come in a number of forms:
4.5.3.2 MATURITY
• viro tubes: 50 x 90 mm with a minimum plant
Plant stock must be mature, sun-hardened and contain a
height 300 mm
fully established root ball that does not crumble when
• 50 mm tubes: 50 x 75–90 mm deep with a minimum
removed from its container (Figure 4.3). Ideally, the
plant height 300 mm
plants will be, on average, 300–500 mm high and not less
than 200 mm. Height is important to enable plants to • native tubes: 50 mm x 125 mm with a minimum plant
cope with inundation. height 300 mm.
Seeding pots of 20 mm should be avoided for required. Planter holes should be twice the size of the
constructed wetlands. These seedlings are considered tubestock. Plants should be carefully removed from the
to be relatively immature and may result in high loss tube to ensure their stems do not break from the root
rates and patchy growth. ball. The top of the root ball should be slightly lower than
the surface level after topsoil has been firmly placed in
4.5.4 Timing of planting the planting hole and around the plant. Water crystals
Timing of planting is dependent on a suitable time of and fertiliser may also be used to assist with
year, irrigation requirements and the building phases of establishment; however, fertiliser should not be
the development. October and November are considered necessary in ameliorated soils.
ideal times to plant vegetation in constructed wetlands. 4.5.5.3 ESTABLISHING
Macrophytes are more tolerant of inundation in warmer Ideally, wetland plants, except true aquatic species,
waters and this timing allows for adequate should be established in a mudflat environment. Wetland
establishment and root growth before the heavy plants require 2.5–5.0 litres of water per plant per week.
summer rainfall period. Planting late in the year also Watering should be responsive to prevailing conditions
avoids the dry winter months, reducing maintenance to preserve the muddy substrate. A mudflat environment
costs associated with watering. Construction planning reduces the risk of plants drowning and makes the
and phasing should try to correspond with suitable freshly planted site less attractive for problem birds
planting months, wherever possible. However, as lead such as swamp hen and ibis (refer Section 4.4.9 for more
times from earthworks to planting can be long, detail).
temporary erosion controls should always be used
before planting. It is very important to ensure plants are established
correctly in the early stages of the wetland
Planting should be avoided during periods of extreme establishment because replanting and increasing plant
weather conditions such as very hot days or during frost cover in a wetland that has been flooded, and possibly
or heavy rainfall. with an established bird population, is very difficult,
time consuming and expensive.
4.5.5 Planting procedure
If plants must be established in a flooded wetland, water
levels should be established at half the height of the
While many wetland plants may look the same, there can
wetland plants. It must not exceed two-thirds of the
be substantial differences in growing requirements,
height of the plants to avoid stress and drowning,
particularly water depth. Species planted too deep or in
particularly in winter. Planting in water will be 2–3 times
a location that is too dry will struggle to establish. This
slower than in dry conditions.
makes plant set-out important and must be a hold point
in the construction process. If the superintendent lacks Given the critical importance of successfully
specialist plant knowledge, an appropriately qualified establishing plant cover within the wetland as quickly as
ecologist or landscaper should be consulted to confirm possible, a pro-active and adaptive approach should be
that set-out and any proposed adjustments are taken, responding to any issues relating to the health of
appropriate. the plants. Responses can include adjusting water levels
(see Section 4.4.6), eliminating weeds, addressing issues
It is important to get an even cover of vegetation
with weather patterns or broadcasting seed to improve
perpendicular to the dominant flow path. Design plant
the wetland seed bank and increase plant cover in bare
densities must be checked to ensure there is no
areas.
excessive clumping of plants at the expense of other
areas that are bare. Uneven distribution of planting More than 90% of plants must survive with 80%
increases the establishment time, promotes short- coverage of the wetland, otherwise replanting should
circuiting and can compromise the wetland’s treatment occur.
performance.
4.5.6 Water level control
4.5.5.2 PLANTING
To maximise the chances of successful establishment of
Plants in constructed wetlands are usually planted as
vegetation, the water level of the wetland system should
tubestock using either hand tools or machinery. In very
be manipulated in the early stages of vegetation growth.
large wetland plantings, tractors are sometimes
When first planted, vegetation in the deep marsh and
pool zones may be too small for their prescribed water • Week 1–6 5 waterings per week
depths. Seedlings intended for inundated sections • Week 6–10 3 waterings per week
should ideally have half their stem height above water • Week 11–15 2 waterings per week.
level, and must not have any less than one-third of their
In the absence of rain, it is recommended that each plant
stem above the water level. This may not be possible if
receives 2.5–5.0 litres per week during the first six
planting stock is immature and initially planted at the
weeks to retain a muddy substrate (40 mm of watering
intended depth. If planted too deeply, young, submerged
per week during establishment).
plants will not be able to access sufficient light in the
open water zones. Without competition from submerged After this initial four-month period, watering may still be
plants, phytoplankton (algae) may start to proliferate. required within the ephemeral zones of the wetland,
particularly during the first winter or dry period.
The water depth must be controlled in the establishment
period for wetland plants. Closing off the connection Importantly, a suitable source and quantity of irrigation
between the inlet zone and the macrophyte zone and water must be identified before plants are delivered to
opening the maintenance valve in the riser outlet will site. Recycled water may be appropriate for use but
help to control the depth. The deep marsh zones should should be confirmed with the superintendent.
be approximately 150–200 mm for at least the first 6–8
weeks. This will ensure these areas are inundated to a 4.5.8 Weed control
shallow depth and that the shallow marsh zone remains Weed management in constructed wetlands is important
moist, providing suitable conditions for plant to ensure that weeds do not compete with the planted
establishment. Seedlings planted in the ephemeral species. Most weed seeds that enter a wetland will find
marsh and littoral zones of the wetland will require it difficult to establish due to the permanently wet
ongoing watering (see Section 4.4.7). When plants are nature of wetlands. However, it is important to manage
establishing well and growing actively, they should be of native aquatic species like typha or phragmites that
sufficient height to endure deeper water. The connection naturally can appear in constructed wetlands and
between the inlet pond and the macrophyte zone can be compete with more important planted species.
temporarily opened to allow the wetland to fill slowly. The most effective method of managing weeds during
The designed operating water level can be established establishment is by fortnightly inspection and removing
when it is clear the wetland plants have matured to the the weeds by hand. Regular inspections will minimise the
point where at least half of the stem is above the work and ensure the weeds are not able to establish in
operating water level. large populations and start to propagate.
Before planting macrophytes, the wetland can be fully High planting densities also help design vegetation
inundated for a period of 1–2 weeks. This allows establish rapidly and propagate quickly to the point
sufficient time for sedimentation, assisted by the added where weeds find it difficult to establish.
gypsum, if necessary, to ensure that the water is
relatively clear. It will also give time for nutrient cycling If a wetland becomes weed-infested, any herbicides
within the water body to reach an acceptable level of used must be are carefully selected to avoid potential
equilibrium. Vegetation planting must start immediately impact on downstream ecosystems. Herbicides should
after this inundation period because conditions will be be applied via painting onto the weeds rather than
favourable for algal growth, increasing the threat of an spraying. It should be done during autumn when the
algal bloom. weeds may be senescing. Weed spraying and any use of
chemicals should be undertaken by staff with relevant
training and certification such as a Chemcert certificate.
4.5.7 Watering
Regular watering during plant establishment is essential Mulching of the batter, embankments and littoral banks
to retain a muddy substrate in the shallow marsh and can occur, but must consider the risk that conventional
ephemeral sections of the wetland. The frequency of surface mulches such as tanbark will float. Adopting high
watering is dependent on rainfall, the maturity of plant planting density rates and, if necessary, applying a
stock and the water-holding capacity of the soil. A suitable biodegradable erosion control matting to the
watering program should be established to suit the site wetland batters will help to combat weed invasion. If
conditions. The following guidance provides a starting mulch is used on the littoral zones, it must be secured in
point for the irrigation program: place with appropriate organic mesh or netting (local
authority approval may be required to use netting).
4.5.9 Bird protection 4.6 Managing sediment during the
During the early stages of wetland establishment, water building phase
birds can be a major problem as they may pull out
recently plantings. Interlocking planting systems, where 4.6.1 Managing sediment
several plants are grown together in a single container The inflow of sediment-laden runoff to a macrophyte
such as ‘floral edges’, can be an effective solution. Water zone is a risk to the successful establishment and long-
birds find it difficult to lift the interlocking plants out of term function of constructed wetlands. Sediment can
the substrate unlike single plants grown in tubes. smother vegetation, change water depths in the
macrophyte zone and ‘muddy’ the water thus reducing
Another option is to install protective fencing such as
plant photosynthesis (i.e. drown plants). In some
para-webbing on the open water side of a planting to
constructed wetlands, the accumulation of sediment has
discourage the birds.
required a complete reconstruction of wetlands at
When establishing a new wetland, there is a small significant cost. Therefore, managing sediment during
window of opportunity before a water bird population the construction and establishment of wetlands is
establishes, making an efficient and successful plant- critical and involves:
out essential. Failure to take advantage of this window
• effective erosion and sediment control of civil
can make it difficult to vegetate.
catchment of the wetland in accordance with local
4.5.10 Measuring success government requirements and a recognised guideline,
The wetland planting is considered to be ‘established’ for example the Best Practice Erosion and Sediment
when the plants are robust and self-sustaining. Growth Control (IECA, 2008)
and maturity should be recorded through three-monthly
• effective erosion and sediment control during the
photo logs. Measurements of an established wetland
building phase in accordance with local government
are:
requirements
1. greater than 90% of plants surviving
• protecting the macrophyte zone from sediment-laden
2. 80% coverage of the macrophyte zone runoff while plants are establishing.
3. preferably more than one species per macrophyte Section 4.5.2 describes the challenges associated with
zone the different phases of development sites. Section 0
4. at least 5 plants/m2, but preferably 6–10 plants/m2 describes staged construction and establishment
methods available to manage these challenges.
5. an increase in plant height of at least 50% through the
establishment phase
4.6.2 Development phases
6. propagation is occurring with more than 2–3 stems and
In the context of a large development site, delivering
through seeding
wetlands and establishing vegetation can be challenging.
7. no weeds. The challenges are best described against each typical
phase in the development of a greenfield or infill
development (see Figure 4.4):
• Subdivision construction — The risks to successful

construction and establishment of the constructed
wetlands during this phase of work relate to:
- construction activities that expose large areas of
soil and can generate large sediment loads in runoff,
which can smother wetland vegetation
- construction traffic and other works can damage the
constructed wetlands.
Importantly, all works undertaken during subdivision
construction are ‘controlled’ through a principal
contractor and site manager. This means the risks can be
managed through appropriate guidance and supervision
and the implementation of appropriate erosion and
sediment controls.
Figure 4.4: Typical phases in the creation of a

development site (amended from Leinster, 2006)
• Building phase — When the subdivision construction

works are complete and development plans are sealed,
the building phase of houses or buildings can start.
This phase is effectively ‘uncontrolled’ due to the
number of building contractors and sub-contractors.
Therefore, the building phase represents the greatest
risk to the successful establishment of constructed
wetlands (see Figure 4.5). Although site-based erosion
controls are required, they are not always well
executed.
Figure 4.5: Example of building phase destruction

to wetlands
4.7 Staged construction Table 4.4 summarises the issues and considerations
and establishment methods of each option. This will allow local authorities,
developers, designers and contractors to select
To overcome the challenges associated with delivering
the method most suited to their site.
constructed wetlands, one of two options for staged
construction and establishment is recommended:
• Option 1: Bypass flows and early establishment

of vegetation
• Option 2: Leave as a sedimentation basin.
Table 4.4: Comparison of wetland construction and establishment methods
CONSIDERATIONS WETLAND CONSTRUCTION AND ESTABLISHMENT METHODS
OPTION 1: BYPASS FLOWS AND EARLY OPTION 2: LEAVE AS SEDIMENT BASIN

ESTABLISHMENT OF VEGETATION
Description Construct wetland and disconnect inlet pond from Install wetland hydraulic structures and
macrophyte zone during the building phase. This bulk out the system. Allow the system to
allows the macrophyte zone vegetation to operate as a sediment basin during building
establish during building. When building in the phase. When building in the catchment is
catchment is 80–90%, then the inlet pond is 80–90% complete, clean the inlet pond and
cleaned and disconnection removed. macrophyte zone, install the topsoil and
plant and establish vegetation.
Order of construction Following sequence outlined in Section 4.7. Following sequence outlined in Section 4.8.
Environmental benefit — Moderate High

level of water quality
management during the
building phase
Landscape amenity High Low
Advantages Allows early establishment of vegetation early. Wetland is not constructed until after the
building phases, so there are no sediment
Protects vegetation.
issues.
High amenity.
There is a high level of protection to the
Allows early handover of asset to Council. receiving environment.
Disadvantages There is moderate protection to the receiving It offers poor landscape amenity.
environment (inlet zone removes coarse
Delay in construction results in a long
sediment, but only down to 125um).
period before asset handover.
Preferred construction
and establishment
method:
Streetscape X
Parkland in high profile X

location
Parkland in low profile

location
4.7.1 Option 1: Bypass flows and early - The disconnection to remain in place to ensure the
establishment of vegetation majority of flows from the catchment continue to
bypass the macrophyte zone allowing wetland plants
To reduce the risk of damage and the cost of re-
to reach full maturity without the risk of being
establishment, the civil works associated with the
smothered. The macrophyte zone can be fully
wetlands can be undertaken and temporary protective
commissioned and be ready for operation when the
measures installed to prevent smothering the
building phase is complete.
macrophytes during the building phase (see Figure 4.6).
This involves: • Stage 3 Landscape Establishment (inlet pond) — When
80–90% of the building phase is complete, clean the
• Stage 1 Civil Works — Disconnect the inlet zone from
inlet zone of accumulated sediment, remove the
the macrophyte zone so stormwater is diverted to the
disconnection between the inlet zone and macrophyte
high-flow bypass protecting the macrophyte zone
zone, and allow the constructed wetland to operate in
from excessive sediment loads:
accordance with the design.
- complete bulk earthworks and install hydraulic
As illustrated in Figure 4.7, Option 1 means that very
structures
little landscape establishment is required once the
- create and stabilise the inlet zone and high-flow building phase is complete. The asset can be handed
bypass over in a mature state immediately.
- block the inlet zone connection and divert
stormwater to the high-flow bypass
- complete the civil works.
• Stage 2 Building Phase Protection and Stage 3
Landscape Establishment simultaneously:
- With the macrophyte zone isolated from stormwater
inflows, plant establishment can occur in
macrophyte zone.
Figure 4.6: Illustration of building phase protection

for a constructed wetland
Figure 4.7: Stages of construction and establishment of a constructed wetland
4.7.2 Option 2: Leave as sediment basin Disadvantages of Option 2 are:

Option 2 involves allowing the constructed wetland to • delay in construction may delay plan sealing, on-
function as a sedimentation basin during the building maintenance, bond refunding and asset handover with
phase and then finishing civil and landscape works financial implications for the developer
following the building phase:
• the wetland will look unsightly for a longer period
• Stage 1 Civil Works — Complete bulk earthworks and • there may be a public health risk that could require
install hydraulic structures. fencing of wetland.
• Stage 2 Building Phase Protection — The bulked out It is recommended Option 2 is only considered for large-
system operates as a sedimentation basin throughout scale constructed wetlands where there is an
the building phase. Regular inspection and sediment opportunity to hide the wetland within a large landscape
removal is required. area while it acts as a sediment basin.
• Stage 3 Civil Works and Landscape Establishment —
When 80–90% of the building phase is complete, the
inlet pond and macrophyte zone is drained and
accumulated sediment removed, civil works are
finalised and landscape works establish plants in the
wetland.
Advantages of Option 2 are:
• the constructed wetland is delivered after the building

phase, avoiding sediment issues
• the sediment basin plays a greater role in erosion and
sediment control.
landscape establishment for the Staged Construction and Establishment Option 1. Detailed descriptions and, where
4.8.1 Stage 1 – Civil works

The recommended civil construction sequence for constructed wetlands is summarised in the Table 4.5.
The construction sequence should be read in combination with the Constructed Wetland
Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms.
Table 4.5: Civil construction (Stage 1) step-by-step sequence — Option 1
STEP 1: Pre-start meeting Hold a pre-start meeting with the wetland designer, ecologist, civil engineer,
landscape architect, site supervisor, civil contractor, landscape contractor and,
where required, the Council compliance officer to:
• explain the function of the constructed wetland
• highlight issues and risks associated with construction and establishment
• talk through a preferred construction and establishment approach
• explain the as-constructed survey or drawing, inspection and sign-off

requirements.
STEP 2: Preparation Preparation for construction should occur at least 10–20 days before starting on
site. Preparation includes organising for the hydraulic structures to be fabricated or
supplied, organising the correct equipment to achieve required tolerances (Section
4.3.5), ensuring the topsoil is tested (Section 4.4.1) and identifying construction

timing with the landscape contractors and developing rain contingency plans.
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STEP 3: Setting out Survey the wetland layout in accordance with the set-out plans.
STEP 4: Strip and stockpile topsoil Remove ground cover and strip topsoil. If the topsoil is to be used in the wetland,
on the bunds or the high-flow bypass, it must be tested (see Section 4.4.1) and
screened to remove coarse material and weed seeds.
STEP 5: Bulking out Undertake bulk earthworks including the macrophyte zone, inlet pond, high-flow
bypass and surrounds.
STEP 6: Trimming and profiling Trimming and profiling of earthworks levels must allow for 300 mm of topsoil to
form the final design levels within the wetland and on batters or bunds. The
design levels for the wetland are INCLUSIVE of topsoil, so an additional 300 mm
of excavation below the design levels is required during bulk earthworks (refer
Section 4.3.4).
If an impervious liner is specified in the design, the excavation must allow for this
as well (refer Section 4.3.3). For example, if a clay liner of 300 mm is specified, in
the design, excavation of an additional 300 mm (total of 600 mm when
considering topsoil) will need to occur within the wetland.

CONSTRUCT ION STEP ACTIV IT Y PHOTOS
STEP 7: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off Following completion of the bulking, the site superintendent and wetland
(Form A) designer will inspect the wetland with the contractor and review the bulked-out
system. Where appropriate, the as-constructed survey can be reviewed as part
of the inspection. However, the as-constructed survey of the final topsoil levels
is the critical requirement. If the construction meets the design requirements,
Sign-Off Form A will be completed and signed with photos attached, together
with the as-constructed survey if it was collected.
STEP 8: Install impervious liner (where required) Install the impervious liner to design and supplier specifications. It is critical
that the liner is sealed and geotechnical certification of the liner is obtained
(refer Section 4.3.3).
STEP 9: Placement of key wetland bunds Construct the earth bunds between the inlet pond and macrophyte zone of the
wetland and between the wetland and the lake, including a clay core within the
bunds. Compact the bunds, including the top of the bund, to ensure it retains
water in the wetland. Geotechnical certification of the liner must be obtained
outlining that the bunds will hold water (refer Section 4.3.3).
STEP 10: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off After placement of the liner and the bunds, the site superintendent and wetland
(Form B) designer will inspect the wetland with the contractor and review the system.
Where required, the geotech specialist will also attend the inspection. As a
minimum, the geotechnical certification must be reviewed as part of the
inspection.
If the construction meets the geotech and suppliers’ specifications then

Sign-Off Form B will be completed and signed with photos attached.

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STEP 11: Install hydraulic and functional Construct all hydraulic, functional and structural elements of the wetland.
structures This includes, but is not limited to:
• inlet pipes and headwalls
• inlet zone connections (pit and pipe)
• outlet riser
• outlet pipe (upstream and downstream) and headwalls
• bypass weir
• rock protection
• maintenance pipe and valves
• rock or concrete base of inlet zone and pond
• maintenance access.
Any pipework through bunds or embankments must have seepage collars.
Construction of the hydraulic, functional and structural elements should meet the
tolerances outlined in Section 4.3.5. The as-constructed survey is required at this
stage for each of the elements.
STEP 12: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off Following collection of the as-constructed survey, the site superintendent and
(Form C) wetland designer will inspect the hydraulic and functional structures with the
contractor, review the as-constructed survey and take photos. If the construction

meets the tolerances outlined in Section 4.3.5 and conforms with the design,
Sign-Off Form C will be completed and signed and the as-constructed survey and
photos attached.
STEP 13: Topsoil placement and profiling to final A suitable source of topsoil will have been identified in Step 2 and tested in
levels accordance with Section 4.4.1. If necessary, add gypsum to the topsoil and install
topsoil to a minimum depth of 300 mm.
Profile the topsoil using a ‘pozitrack’ bobcat with a spreader bar to achieve the final
wetland design levels in accordance with the tolerances in Section 4.3.5. The design
levels through the macrophyte zone must be achieved to within 50 mm and will often
require a number of profiling steps to achieve the required levels.
The as-constructed survey of the final topsoil levels through the entire wetland, in
particular the macrophyte zone, will be required. Superimpose this survey on the
original design for the site superintendent and wetland designer.
(Form D) wetland designer will inspect the topsoil and final levels through the wetland with
the contractor, review the as-constructed survey and take photos. If the
construction meets the tolerances outlined Section 4.3.5, and conforms with the
design, Sign-Off Form D will be completed and signed with the as-constructed
survey and photos attached.
CONTINUE TO STEP 15 IMMEDIATELY

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4.8.2 Stage 2 — Building phase protection and Stage 3 — Landscape Establishment
Table 4.6 provides the construction and establishment sequence associated with the building phase protection
(Stage 2) and landscape establishment (Stage 3). Option 1 involves Stage 2 and Stage 3 occurring at the same time.
These works should commence immediately following Step 14. The construction sequence should be read in
combination with the Constructed Wetland Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms.
Table 4.6: Building phase protection (Stage 2) and landscape establishment (Stage 3a) step-by-step sequence — Option 1
STEP 15: Disconnect the inlet zone from the To allow vegetation to establish within the macrophyte zone, exclude sediment-
macrophyte zone laden runoff from the zone and manipulate the water level. This is only a temporary
measure achieved by blocking the connection between the inlet zone (pond) and the
macrophyte zone. However, include a mechanism to open this connection for short
periods to slowly fill or flush the wetland when required. Place moveable steel plates
on the overflow pit in the inlet zone pit.
During this establishment period, all flows from minor and major storms will be
directed over the inlet zone bypass weir and into the bypass channel. The inlet pond
forms a sediment basin and may require desilting several times before
establishment.
STEP 16: Stabilise the high-flow bypass (vegetate Stabilise the high-flow bypass channel if it will receive flows during most rainfall
with turf) events while vegetation is establishing in the macrophyte zone. The high-flow

bypass channel can be stabilised with turf, or reinforced turf, placed perpendicular
to the flow and pinned down.
STEP 17: Install sediment fences Install sediment fences around the perimeter of the wetland to prevent sediment
entering from the batters and to keep construction vehicles off the wetland.
STEP 18: HOLD POINT Following installation of the temporary disconnection, bypass and protective layers,
Inspection and sign-off (Form E) the site superintendent and wetland designer will inspect the wetland with the
contractor and Sign-Off Form E can be completed and signed with photos attached.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION OF CIVIL WORKS & COMMENCEMENT OF STAGE 3 LANDSCAPE WORKS (i.e. with the protective measures in place the macrophyte zone can be established)
STEP 19: Pre-start and plant set-out meeting Before landscape works and wetland planting start, hold a pre-start and plant
set-out meeting with the wetland designers, including an ecologist, the site
superintendent and the landscape contractors. Confirm design and planting
requirements and set out the planting to ensure the correct plants are installed in
STEP 20: Installation of hardscapes Install pathways and boardwalks according to the design and certified by the
landscape architects and engineers.
STEP 21: Mulch batters Mulch the batters of the wetland that are above the top of extended detention and
place a sediment fence on the downslope side of the mulch for batters that are
steeper than 1 in 4. Mulch should be suitably secured with organic netting or other
measures to avoid it floating into the wetland.

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STEP 22: Flooding of macrophyte zone Partially open the disconnection between the inlet zone and macrophyte zone to
allow the macrophyte zone to fill with stormwater. Fully inundate the wetland for a
period of, say, 1–2 weeks. This allows sufficient time for sedimentation, assisted by
the gypsum, to ensure that the water is relatively clear and that nutrient cycling
within the water body reaches an acceptable equilibrium. Commence vegetation
planting immediately after this inundation period.
STEP 23: Inspection of plant tubestock As part of Step 2, plants should have been procured. Instruct the landscape
contractor and wetland designer to inspect the tubestock before it is delivered to
ensure the requirements outlined in Section 4.4.3 are met.
STEP 24: Plant substitutions If any plants have been replaced with a species other than those specified on the
design, confirm with the wetland designers prior to ordering. Any changes to plant
species or numbers of plants must be recorded in the as-constructed landscape
plans.
STEP 25: Planting Plant the tubestock is planted in accordance with the design species, densities and
setout ensuring the root ball is covered with topsoil and the stem is sitting above the
topsoil.

STEP 26: Inspection and sign-off (Form F) After planting, the site superintendent and wetland designer will inspect the
PRACTICAL COMPLETION wetland with the contractor and Sign-Off Form F will be completed and signed with
photos attached.
STEP 27: Water level control Ideally, wetland plants should be established in a mudflat environment. Therefore,
manipulate the water level in the macrophyte zone in the early stages of vegetation
growth. The maximum water level should be half the height of the wetland plants and
it must not exceed two-thirds of the height of wetland plants to avoid stress and
drowning, particularly in winter. The deep marsh species will dictate the depth.
Therefore, lower the water level by at least 300 mm during establishment. Water the
dryer planting zones regularly to sustain a mudflat environment during
establishment.
If lowering of the macrophyte zone via a valve is not possible, pump out will be
required.
STEP 28: Watering Wetland plants should be established in a mudflat environment. Water the dryer
parts of the wetland (shallow marsh, ephemeral and littoral zones) while the water
level in the wetland is low. Water the plants according to in Section 4.4.7:
• Week 1–6 5 waterings per week
• Week 11–15 2 waterings per week.
If there is no rain, each plant should receive 2.5–5 litres of water per week (40 mm
per week minimum during establishment).
STEP 29: Weeding Inspect wetland plants fortnightly, removing any weeds by hand.

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STEP 30: Establish normal water level Fill the wetland to its normal operating water level when the plants are mature and
tall enough to endure deeper water. It typically takes 3–4 months, depending on the
season, for plants to reach this level of maturity.
Temporarily open the connection between the inlet pond and the macrophyte zone
to fill the wetland to normal operating water levels. Once filled, close off the
connection between the inlet pond and the macrophyte zone to allow for a further
period of plant establishment with limited water-level variation.
An established system is measured by:
- survival of more than 90% of plants
- 80% coverage of macrophyte zone
- more than one species per macrophyte zone
- at least 5 plants/m2 and preferably 6–10 plants/m2
- an increase in plant height of at least 50% measured through

markers or stakes
- propagation of more than 2–3 stems and seeding
- no weeds.
Record growth and maturity through three-monthly photo logs every 500m2.
STEP 31: Inspection and sign-off (Form G) Following establishment of plants and normal water level in the macrophyte zone,
the site superintendent and wetland designer will inspect the basin and complete

Sign-Off Form G with photos attached.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION OF LANDSCAPE WORKS. The system continues to establish while most stormwater events during the building phase pass through the inlet zone and bypass the
wetland macrophyte zone. At the end of the building phase the macrophyte zone in the wetland will be fully established with mature vegetation and ready for operation. The only component
left to establish is the inlet zone. Inspect wetland plants fortnightly, removing any weeds by hand.
STEP 32: On-going inspection and final landscape Inspect wetland plants fortnightly during establishment, removing any
establishment weeds by hand. Monitor the establishment of plants until they are robust
and self-sustaining.
4.8.3 Stage 3 — Landscape establishment (inlet zone only)
At the end of the building phase, the macrophyte zone in the wetland will be fully established with mature vegetation
and be ready for operation. The only component left to establish is the inlet zone. When 80–90% of the building is
complete, the inlet zone is de-silted, the disconnection between the inlet zone and macrophyte zone is removed and
the constructed wetland is allowed to operate in accordance with the design.
The recommended landscape establishment sequence for the inlet pond is summarised in Table 4.7. The
establishment sequence should be read in combination with the Constructed Wetlands Construction and
Table 4.7: Landscape establishment of inlet pond (Stage 3b) step-by-step sequence — Option 1
STEP 28: Pre-start and plant set-out meeting Before final establishment of the inlet zone, hold a pre-start meeting between the
wetland designers, including an ecologist, the site superintendent and landscape
contractors. The meeting will confirm cleanout and planting establishment
requirements.
STEP 29: Clean out the inlet zone or pond Remove accumulated sediment and gross litter from the inlet zone or pond down to
the concrete or rock base.
STEP 30: Soil preparation Place topsoil to a depth of 300 mm in the inlet zone from the batters to a depth of
500 mm below the water level for planting.
STEP 31: Remove disconnection between inlet Remove the disconnection between the inlet zone and macrophyte zone so the
zone and macrophyte zone wetland macrophyte zone will be fully engaged.

STEP 32: Planting Plant the inlet zone batters in accordance with Steps 19–25.
STEP 33: Inspection and sign-off (Form H) Following installation of the mulch and plants, the site superintendent and wetland
designer will inspect the inlet zone with the contractor and Sign-Off Form H will be
completed and signed with photos attached.
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landscape establishment for the Staged Construction and Establishment Option 2. Detailed descriptions and, where
4.9.1 Stage 1 — Civil works
Table 4.8: Civil construction step-by-step sequence — Option 2
STEP 1: Pre-start meeting Hold a pre-start meeting with the wetland designer, ecologist, civil engineer,
landscape architect, site supervisor, civil contractor, landscape contractor, and
where, required the Council compliance officer to:
• explain the function of the constructed wetland
• highlight issues and risks associated with construction and establishment
• talk through a preferred construction and establishment approach
• explain the as-constructed survey or drawing, inspection and sign-off

requirements.
STEP 2: Preparation Preparation for construction should occur at least 10–20 days before starting on
site. Preparation includes organising for the hydraulic structures to be fabricated or
supplied, organising the correct equipment to achieve required tolerances (Section

4.3.5), ensuring the topsoil is tested (Section 4.4.1) and identifying construction
timing with the landscape contractors and developing rain contingency plans.
STEP 3: Setting out Survey the wetland layout in accordance with the set-out plans.
STEP 4: Strip and stockpile topsoil Remove ground cover and strip topsoil. If the topsoil is to be used in the wetland, on
the bunds or high-flow bypass, it must be tested (see Section 4.4.1) and screened to
remove coarse material and weed seeds.
STEP 5: Bulking out Undertake bulk earthworks including the macrophyte zone, inlet pond, high-flow
bypass and surrounds.
STEP 6: Trimming and profiling Trimming and profiling of earthworks levels need to allow for of 300 mm of topsoil
to form the final design levels within the wetland and on batters or bunds. The
design levels for the wetland are INCLUSIVE of topsoil, so an additional 300 mm of
excavation below the design levels is required during bulk earthworks (refer Section
4.4.1).
If an impervious liner is specified in the design, the excavation must allow for this as
well (refer Section 4.3.3). For example, if a clay liner of 300 mm is specified in the
design, excavation of an additional 300 mm (total of 600 mm when considering
topsoil) will need to occur within the wetland.
STEP 7: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off Following completion of the bulking, the site superintendent and wetland designer
(Form A) will inspect the wetland with the contractor and review the bulked-out system.
Where appropriate, the as-constructed survey can be reviewed as part of the
inspection. However, the as-constructed survey of the final topsoil levels is the
critical requirement. If the construction meets the design requirements, Sign-Off
Form A will be completed and signed with photos attached, together with the
as-constructed survey if it was collected.
STEP 8: Install impervious liner (where required) Install the impervious liner to design and supplier specifications. It is critical that
the liner is sealed and geotechnical certification of the liner is obtained (refer

Section 4.3.3).
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STEP 9: Placement of key wetland bunds Construct the earth bunds between the inlet pond and macrophyte zone of the
wetland and between the wetland and the lake, including a clay core within the
bunds. Compact the bunds, including the top of the bund, to ensure it retains water
in the wetland. Geotechnical certification of the liner must be obtained outlining
that the bunds will hold water (refer Section 4.3.3).
STEP 10: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off After placement of the liner and the bunds, the site superintendent and wetland
(Form B) designer will inspect the wetland with the contractor and review the system. Where
required, the geotech specialist will also attend the inspection.
As a minimum, the geotechnical certification must be reviewed as part
of the inspection.
If the construction meets the geotech and suppliers’ specifications,

then Sign-Off Form B will be completed and signed with photos attached.
STEP 11: Install hydraulic and functional Construct all hydraulic, functional and structural elements of the wetland.
structures This includes, but is not limited to:
- inlet pipes and headwalls
- inlet zone connections (pit and pipe)
- outlet riser
- outlet pipe (upstream and downstream) and headwalls
- bypass weir

- rock protection
- maintenance pipe and valves
- rock or concrete base of inlet zone and pond
- maintenance access.
Construction of the hydraulic, functional and structural elements should meet the
tolerances outlined in Section 4.3.5. The as-constructed survey is required at this
stage for each of the elements.
CONSTRUCT ION STEP ACTIV IT Y PHOTOS
(Form C) wetland designer will inspect the hydraulic and functional structures with the
contractor, review the as-constructed survey and take photos. If the construction
meets the tolerances outlined in Section 4.3.5 and conforms with the design,
Sign-Off Form C will be completed and signed with the as-constructed survey and
photos attached.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION OF STAGE 1 CIVIL WORKS: The ‘bulked out’ constructed wetland operates as a sedimentation basin during the building phase of development. At the end of the
building phase (80–90% completion of the building) the wetland is cleaned out and civil works completed and landscape established.

The constructed wetland is allowed to operate as a sedimentation basin during the building phase.
Operation and management of the sedimentation basin is the responsibility of the developer and it
is suggested a maintenance contract is established with the civil or landscape contractor to monitor
the performance of the sedimentation basin, undertake regular inspections, clean the basin as required
and complete rectification of the system as required.

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4.9.3 Stage 3 — Civil works and landscape establishment
Once the building phase is complete, the constructed wetland is cleaned out of accumulated sediment, civil works
are finalised and landscape established in accordance with the sequence provided in Table 4.9. The construction and
establishment sequence should be read in combination with the Constructed Wetland Construction and
Table 4.9: Civil construction and landscape establishment step-by-step sequence — Option 2
STEP 13: Clean out the macrophyte zone and inlet Remove accumulated sediment and gross litter from the inlet zone or pond and the
zone or pond macrophyte zone.
STEP 14: Check liner and hydraulic structures The impervious liner should be reassessed at this stage (or installation delayed to
this step) to ensure it conforms with the requirements of Section 4.3.3. Additionally,
the hydraulic structures should be inspected for damage or movement.
STEP 15: Topsoil placement and profiling to final A suitable source of topsoil will have been identified in Step 2 and tested in
levels accordance with Section 4.4.1. If necessary, add gypsum to the topsoil and install
topsoil to a minimum depth of 300 mm.
Profile the topsoil using a ‘pozitrack’ bobcat with a spreader bar to achieve the final
wetland design levels in accordance with the tolerances in Section 4.3.5. The design

levels through the macrophyte zone must be achieved to within 50 mm and will often
require a number of profiling steps to achieve the required levels.
The as-constructed survey of the final topsoil levels through the entire wetland, in
particular the macrophyte zone, will be required. Superimpose this survey on the
original design for the site superintendent and wetland designer.
(Form D) wetland designer will inspect the topsoil and final levels through the wetland with
the contractor, review the as-constructed survey and take photos. If the
construction meets the tolerances outlined Section 4.3.5 and conforms with the
design, Sign-Off Form D will be completed and signed with the as-constructed
survey and photos attached.
STEP 17: Disconnect the inlet zone from the To allow vegetation to establish within the macrophyte zone, exclude sediment-
macrophyte zone laden runoff from the zone and manipulate the water level. This is only a temporary
measure achieved by blocking the connection between the inlet zone (pond) and the
macrophyte zone. However, include a mechanism to open this connection for short
periods to slowly fill or flush the wetland when required. Place moveable steel plates
on the overflow pit in the inlet zone pit.
During this establishment period, all flows from minor and major storms will be
directed over the inlet zone bypass weir and into the bypass channel. The inlet pond
forms a sediment basin and may require desilting several times before
establishment.
STEP 18: Stabilise the high-flow bypass Stabilise the high-flow bypass channel if it will receive flows during most rainfall
(vegetate with turf) events while vegetation is establishing in the macrophyte zone. The high-flow
bypass channel can be stabilised with turf, or reinforced turf, placed perpendicular
to the flow and pinned down.

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STEP 19: Install sediment fences Install sediment fences around the perimeter of the wetland to prevent sediment
entering from the batters and to keep construction vehicles off the wetland.
STEP 20: HOLD POINT Inspection and sign-off Following installation of the temporary disconnection, bypass and protective layers,
(Form E) the site superintendent and wetland designer will inspect the wetland with the
contractor and Sign-Off Form E can be completed and signed with photos attached.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION OF CIVIL WORKS
STEP 21: Pre-start and plant set-out meeting Before landscape works and wetland planting start, hold a pre-start and plant
(landscape establishment) set-out meeting with the wetlands designers including an ecologist, the site
superintendent and the landscape contractors. Confirm design and planting
requirements and set out the planting to ensure the correct plants are installed in
STEP 22: Installation of hardscapes Install pathways and boardwalks according to the design and certified by the
landscape architects and engineers.
STEP 23: Mulch batters Mulch the batters of the wetland that are above the top of the extended detention
and place a sediment fence on the downslope side of the mulch for batters that are

steeper than 1 in 4.
STEP 24: Flooding of macrophyte zone Partially open the disconnection between the inlet zone and macrophyte zone to
allow the macrophyte zone to fill with stormwater. Fully inundate the wetland for a
period of say 1–2 weeks. This allows sufficient time for sedimentation, assisted by
the gypsum, to ensure that the water is relatively clear and that nutrient cycling
within the water body reaches an acceptable equilibrium. Commence vegetation
planting immediately after this inundation period.
STEP 25: Inspection of plant tubestock As part of Step 2, plants should have been procured. Instruct the landscape
contractor and wetland designer to inspect the tubestock before it is delivered to
ensure the requirements outlined in Section 4.4.3 are met.
STEP 26: Plant substitutions If any plants have been replaced with a species other than those specified on the
design, confirm with the wetland designers prior to ordering. Any changes to plant
species or numbers of plants must be recorded on the as-constructed landscape
plans.
STEP 27: Planting Plant the tubestock in accordance with the design specifications, densities and
setout ensuring the root ball is covered with topsoil and the stem is sitting above the
topsoil.
STEP 28: Inspection and sign-off (Form F) After planting, the site superintendent and wetland designer will inspect the wetland
PRACTICAL COMPLETION with the contractor and Sign-Off Form F will be completed and signed with photos
attached.
STEP 29: Water level control Ideally, wetland plants should be established in a mudflat environment. Therefore,
manipulate the water level in the macrophyte zone in the early stages of vegetation
growth. The maximum water level should be half the height of the wetland plants and
it must not exceed two-thirds of the height of wetland plants, to avoid stress and
drowning, particularly in winter. The deep marsh species will dictate the depth.
Therefore, lower the water level by at least 300 mm during establishment. Water the

dryer planting zones regularly to sustain a mudflat environment during
establishment.
If lowering of the macrophyte zone via a valve is not possible, pump out
will be required.
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STEP 30: Watering Wetland plants should be established in a mudflat environment. Water the dryer
parts of the wetland (shallow marsh, ephemeral and littoral zones) while the water
level in the wetland is low. Water the plants according to in Section 4.4.7:
• Week 11–15 2 waterings per week.
If there is no rain, each plant should receive 2.5–5 litres of water per week.
STEP 31: Weeding Inspect wetland plants fortnightly, removing any weeds by hand.
STEP 32: Remove disconnection between inlet Remove the disconnection between the inlet zone and macrophyte zone so the
zone and macrophyte zone wetland macrophyte zone will be fully engaged.
STEP 32: Establish normal water level Fill the wetland to its normal operating water level when the plants are mature and
tall enough to endure deeper water. It typically takes 3–4 months, depending on
season, for plants to reach this level of maturity.
Temporarily open the connection between the inlet pond and the macrophyte zone
to fill the wetland to normal operating water levels. Once filled, close off the
connection between the inlet pond and the macrophyte zone to allow for a further
period of plant establishment with limited water-level variation.
An established system is measured by:

- survival of more than 90% of plants
- more than one species per macrophyte zone
- at least 5 plants/m2 and preferably 6–10 plants/m2
- an increase in plant height of at least 50% measured through markers or stakes
- propagation of more than 2–3 stems and seeding
- no weeds.
Record growth and maturity through three-monthly photo logs every 500 m2.
STEP 33: Inspection and sign-off (Form G) Following establishment of plants and normal water level in the macrophyte zone,
the site superintendent and wetland designer will inspect the basin and complete
Sign-Off Form G with attached photos.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION OF LANDSCAPE WORKS.
STEP 34: On-going inspection and final landscape Inspect wetland plants fortnightly during establishment, removing any weeds by
establishment hand. Monitor the establishment of plants until they are robust and self-sustaining.

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The construction and establishment of any civil or landscape asset requires refinement and repair of defects to
ensure compliance with the design. Table 4.10 outlines potential construction and establishment failures or defects
that can occur and suggests rectification actions. The table focuses on construction and establishment defects and
functional failures that can occur following the completion of construction. The table is not exhaustive and will be
updated in future versions of this guideline. The wetland designer or external expert should be consulted when the
following failures occur to confirm rectification actions.
Table 4.10: Potential failure scenarios for constructed wetlands and rectification actions
DEFECT OR FAILURE CAU SES RECTIFICATION
Failure of wetland plants if open water The depths through the macrophyte zone are too deep causing Lower the normal water level in the wetland by changing the riser
covers more than 30% of the macrophyte ‘drowning’ of wetland plants. Wetland plants will not survive long outlet levels.
zone area term in depths of greater then 0.5 m and will generally begin to die
If it is not possible to lower the water levels in the wetland due to
out after about two years.
level constraints at the outfall, then drain the wetland and add
topsoil to reduce depths. The final wetland depths should be
between 0.5 m below the normal level to 0.2 m above the normal
water level.
The water level in the macrophyte zone is above the normal water Change the outlet riser to reduce notional detention time in the
level for long periods thus drowning the plants because: wetland. In South East Queensland, the preferred notional detention
time is 48 hours.
- the notional detention time in the wetland is too long
- the wetland is small in relation to the catchment with low Lower the wetland water level below the normal level to allow the
plants to re-establish.
hydrologic effectiveness.

The extended detention is too deep (greater then 0.5 m). Change the outlet riser to reduce notional detention time in the
wetland. In South East Queensland the preferred notional detention
time is 48 hours.
Blocked riser outlet. Clean the outlet riser and inspect regularly.
Poor topsoil. The quality of topsoil used in the wetland should have been
confirmed through the construction and establishment process and
Sign-Off Form D. If topsoil is considered to be the cause of plant
loss, then soil one sample per 250–500 m2 should be collected and
tested in accordance with AS4419. If the testing finds the presence
of poor topsoil, then the soils should be ameliorated to support plant
growth or replaced.
Ponding of water in isolated pools that may Poor topsoil trimming or footmarks. Fill isolated pools with topsoil and plant out.
support mosquitoes Ensure the finished surface is level.
Scour of wetland vegetation Where the flows entering the macrophyte zone from the inlet pond Retrofit an energy dissipation system at the outlet of the connection
are large, local velocities maybe be high resulting in scour of the pipe to the macrophyte zone. Seek advice from a stormwater
vegetation if appropriate energy dissipation is not provided in the engineer.
design.
Scour of inlet pond Where flow exits the pipe system to the inlet pond, there is a risk of Rectify scour, provide rock protection to outlet and, where
scour where rock protection is not provided. appropriate, plant out.
Scour around high-flow bypass weir If the weir crest and grouted rock protection is not extended up the Extend the concrete weir crest and grouted rock batters up the
batters of the wetland and the high-flow bypass channel, scour can batters to at least 0.5 m above the weir invert.
occur around the edge of the weir and flows will skirt the weir.
Scour within high-flow bypass channel Where this is constructed with a moderate grade along the high-flow Rectify scour, provide rock protection to outlet and, where
bypass, scour can occur as a result of high velocity. appropriate, plant out.
Scour of wetland batters Lateral surface flows entering the wetland from the small catchment Direct lateral flows to small, rock-lined channels that feed down the
directly adjacent to wetland. batters to the wetland. Rectify and plant out scoured zones.

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Failure of the wetland bunds Failure of the bunds can occur through a number of scour and Rectify scour and ensure geotech certification of the bund for
overflow mechanisms or due to the bunds being constructed too low stability and water-hold capacity. Where required, raise the bund
or scour along outlet pipes. well above the top of the potential flood levels in the wetland and
provide rock protection in high velocity locations.
Leaking wetland The wetland liner was constructed incorrectly or has been damaged Drain the wetland, inspect for evidence of damage in open water
resulting in either water losses or groundwater infiltration. zones, and seek advice from a geotechnical consultant. Application
of bentonite clay may assist in blocking a leak.
Failure of the seepage collars around the wetland pipe outlets. Drain the wetland and expose the outlet pipe and seepage collar.
Repair or install seepage collars as directed by the wetland designer
(typically 500 m around pipe).

4.11 Certification
Certification is major issue for the implementation of
constructed wetlands. Given the systems are essentially
civil infrastructures with a landscape overlay, the
responsibility for compliance, certification and asset
handover is not well defined. Most developers,
designers, contractors and local authorities have
different approaches for dealing with these issues,
which has resulted in confusion within the industry.
The guidance provided in these guidelines and the

Constructed Wetland Construction and Establishment
Sign-Off Forms provide a basis for clarifying any
confusion. Table 4.11 summarises recommended civil and
landscape certification requirements for constructed
wetlands.
CERTIFICATION WHO SUPPO RTING DOCUMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION
Civil certification Site (civil) Constructed wetland designer’s certification of functional elements
superintendent
Geotech specialist’s certification of liner and bunds
NATA-registered testing results confirming suitability of topsoil along with

amendment details
Completed and signed Sign-off Forms A, B, C, D and E
As-constructed survey and drawings and photos.
Landscape Site (landscape) Constructed wetland designer’s or ecologist’s certification of plant species
certification superintendent
As-constructed drawings showing final species and plant numbers
Completed and signed Sign-off Form F.
4.12 Compliance The tender and contract documents can simply refer to
Compliance of constructed wetlands represents a major the relevant sections of these guidelines. If the Sign-Off
challenge for local authorities. Given that the systems form requirements are not achieved, then the contract is
are essentially civil infrastructure with a landscape not fulfilled and payment is withheld.
overlay, the responsibility for compliance and asset
handover has not been well defined. Most local 4.13.2 Ownership and handover
authorities have different approaches for dealing with A common problem with the construction and
these issues, which has resulted in confusion within the establishment of WSUD systems is ownership and
industry. maintenance during both the handover of the asset from
the civil contractor to the landscape contractor and the
building phase maintenance. These issues must be
attached to this guideline and the certification
considered when establishing the contracts:
requirements outlined in Section 4.10 provide the basis
for compliance. To support the final compliance • Handover from the civil contractor to the landscape
inspection and practical completion, the following contractor — This handover process can take months
documentation is required: to occur for a number of reasons, such as separate
operational works approval processes for landscape
• completed Construction and Establishment Sign-Off
design. The wetland may remain un-vegetated and
Forms
unmanaged during this period. Sediment accumulation
• as-constructed survey and photos (as per Sign-Off and damage will occur during rainfall events and
Form requirements) maintenance or rectification will be required.
• site superintendent certification If there will be a delay between the civil works and
• wetland designer certification. landscape works, then it is recommended a
maintenance contract is established (or maintenance
It is also recommended that compliance inspection is
allowance is made in the civil contract) for inspection,
undertaken at the following hold points:
cleanout and rectification of the civil works during this
• pre-start meeting period. This could be costed as a monthly allowance or
• practical completion (on-maintenance) of civil works on a per inspection or per maintenance event basis. It
(Sign-Off Forms A, B, C, D and E are complete) is recommended the civil contractor is responsible for
this work and the contract reflects the inspection and
• practical completion (on-maintenance) of landscape
works (Sign-Off Form F)
• Building phase maintenance — During the building
• final inspection following landscape establishment
phase sediment accumulation and damage will occur.
(Sign-Off Form G).
It is important that regular inspections are made
after rainfall events and that appropriate cleanout
4.13 Civil and landscape contracts
or rectification is undertaken. It is recommended a
4.13.1 Contracts maintenance contract is established for this purpose.
To ensure all parties involved in the construction and The maintenance contract could be costed as a
establishment of the constructed wetland are aware of monthly allowance or on a per inspection or per
the certification requirements and the associated maintenance event basis and the work can be
Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms, the undertaken by the civil or landscape contractor or a
Tender and Civil and Landscape Contracts must include maintenance contractor. Once 80–90% of the building
the following: is complete, the maintenance contract would cease
and landscape works would commence.
• the construction and establishment specifications
provided in Sections 4.4 and 4.5 of these guidelines
• the preferred construction and establishment method
(see Section 4.7)
• Sign-Off Forms with the as-constructed survey and
drawing requirements
• the certification requirements listed in Table 4.11.
4.14 Sign-Off Forms
outline the key items to be reviewed when delivering and
inspecting constructed wetlands. The Sign-Off Forms
follow the construction method described in Sections
4.7 to 4.8. The forms are to be used by contractors,
construction site supervisors, designers and local
authority compliance officers to ensure all the elements
of the constructed wetland have been constructed in
accordance with the design. If an item receives an ‘N’ in
the ‘Satisfactory’ criteria, indicating that elements are
not satisfactory, actions must be specified and delivered
to rectify the construction issue before final inspection
sign-off is given.
The Sign-Off Forms are the basis of the certification and

compliance requirements for constructed wetlands and
are designed for incorporation into asset databases
managed by councils or private organisations such as
body corporates.
The following Construction and Establishment Sign-Off

Forms are provided:
• Constructed Wetland Construction and Establishment

Sign-Off Forms
• FORM A — Earthworks Bulking Out and Profiling
• FORM B — Bunds and Impervious Liner (where
required)
• FORM C — Hydraulic and Function Structures
• FORM D — Topsoil and Finished Levels
• FORM E — Building Phase (Macrophyte) Protection
• FORM F — Macrophyte Zone Landscape Installation
• FORM G — Macrophyte Zone Landscape
Establishment
• FORM H — Inlet Zone Landscape Installation and
Establishment.
Construction and Establishment Sign-Off Forms,
which are relevant at the time of writing this guideline.
CONSTRUCTED WETLAND CONSTRUCTION & ESTABLISHMENT SIGN-OFF FORMS
Asset I.D. DA No.
Wetland location:
Area: Catchment Area (ha): Wetland Macrophyte Area (ha):
Civil drawing no.
Developer
Site superintendent
(landscape)
Wetland designer
Civil engineer
Landscape architect
Civil contractor
NAME OF SIGNATORY & ROLE

SIGN-OFF FORM DATE COMPLETED SIGNATURE
Pre-Start Meeting
Form A — Earthworks Bulking

Out and Profiling
Form B — Bunds and

Impervious Liner (where
required)
Form C — Hydraulic and

Form D — Topsoil and

Finished Levels
Form E — Building Phase

(Macrophyte) Protection
Form F — Macrophyte Zone

Landscape Installation
Form G — Macrophyte Zone

Landscape Establishment
Form H — Inlet Zone

Landscape Installation and
Establishment
PRE-START MEETING
Pre-starting attendees to be listed and sign that that have attended and understand the design intent, construction and
establishment process.
Location
Date
ROLE/STAKEHOLDER COMPANY CONTACT NAME SIGN
Developer
Site
Wetland designer
Civil engineer
Landscape architect
Civil contractor
Other
Other
Other
FORM A — EARTHWORKS BULKING OUT AND PROFILING
Purpose: To ensure earthworks bulking out, trimming and profiling is in accordance with design drawings and specifications
(allowance for 300 mm topsoil and, where required, minimum 300 mm of impervious liner).
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
As-constructed survey completed and

Set out of wetlands is correct including

macrophyte zone, inlet zone and high-
flow bypass
Levels are at correct elevation (±50 mm)

allowing for 300 mm topsoil and where
required 300 mm impervious liner
HOLD POINT: Superintendent and wetland designer inspection and sign-off before proceeding.
NB: As-constructed survey or drawings and photos attached.
Signed by superintendent: Signed by wetland designer:
Date: Date:
FORM B — BUNDS AND IMPERVIOUS LINER
Purpose: To ensure the bunds are installed and sealed and the impervious liner is constructed as per the specifications and the
test results verify this.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
As-constructed survey complete for top

of bunds and liner
Laboratory tests results of liner material

submitted and adequate
Delivery docket of liner material supplied
Liner material installed and sealed as per

specification
Geotechnical engineer certification of in-

situ compaction or liner placement
Geotechnical engineer certification of

key bunds
HOLD POINT: Superintendent or wetland designer inspection and sign-off before proceeding.
Date: Date:
FORM C — HYDRAULIC AND FUNCTIONAL STRUCTURES
Purpose: To ensure that the hydraulic structures associated with the wetland are constructed in accordance with design and
specifications.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
As-constructed survey completed and

Inlet pipe and headwall at correct

locations and levels (± 25 mm)
Inlet zone connection pit or pipe

correction size, location and level
(± 25 mm)
Outlet riser connection, location, size and

levels or risers correct (± 25 mm)
Outlet pipe and headwall at correction

locations and level (± 25 mm)
Bypass weir correct width and level

(± 25 mm)
Maintenance pipe and valve installed at

correct location and level
Maintenance access installed to

inlet zone
Rock or concrete base constructed to

inlet zone
Rock protection provided at correct

locations and rock size consistent
with design
Seepage collars installed to all pipe

outlets from wetland
HOLD POINT: Superintendent AND Wetland Designer inspection and review of test results and certifications before proceeding.
Date: Date:
FORM D — TOPSOIL AND FINISHED LEVELS
Purpose: To ensure the topsoil is installed to the correct depth and finished levels of wetland are correct and meet the design.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Topsoil meets the requirements of

AS4419 and laboratory tests provided
Topsoil has been screened and is free of

large debris
Topsoil applied to wetland to a minimum

300 mm depth
As-constructed survey of wetland

surface and surrounding bunds
completed
Final topsoil levels are consistent with

design levels (± 50 mm). THIS IS
CRITICAL IN THE MACROPHYTE ZONE.
ZONE.
Surface is smooth and free of local

depressions and debris
Date: Date:
FORM E — BUILDING PHASE (MACROPHYTE) PROTECTION
Purpose: To ensure protective measures are correctly installed to protect the macrophyte zone during establishment while
building is occurring in the catchment.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Silt fences installed around all elements

of wetland
High-flow bypass channel protective

measures in place (i.e. turf installed and
where required reinforced turf)
Inlet zone disconnected from

macrophyte zone (i.e. plates placed on
overflow pit and secured)
HOLD POINT: Superintendent or wetland designer inspection and sign-off before proceeding.
Date: Date:
FORM F — MACROPHYTE ZONE LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Species change must be approved by

wetland designer or ecologist and
marked on as-constructed drawings

and maturity (300mm min) and hardened

planting density
As-constructed drawings marked up with

Water level control is operating

appropriately
Correct mulch has been supplied and

installed to batters and bunds above the
extended detention and secured in place
HOLD POINT: Superintendent and wetland designer inspection and sign-off.
Date: Date:
FORM G — MACROPHYTE ZONE LANDSCAPE ESTABLISHMENT
Purpose: To ensure the plants established.
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Macrophyte plants have matured to a

point where water level in macrophyte
zone can be allowed to reach design level
(typically 6–10 weeks after installation)
Macrophyte zone plants established

(500 mm above normal water level and
propagation is occurring)
1. Survivorship greater than 90%
2. Preferably more than one species per

macrophyte zone
3. At least 5 plants/m2 (preferably 6–10

6–10
plants/m2)
4. In create in plant height of at least

50%. This can be measured through
the use of marker or stakes through
the wetland zones
5. Propagation is occurring (more than 2–

3 stems, seeding)
6. No weeds.
Growth and maturity should be recorded

through three-monthly photo logs every
500 m2.
Date: Date:
FORM H — INLET ZONE LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION AND ESTABLISHMENT
PLANT SUPPLY & INSTALLATION
ACTION (IF
UNSATISFACTORY)
Supplied plants are correct species.

Species change must be approved by
wetland designer or ecologist and
marked on as-constructed drawings.

and maturity (300 mm min) and hardened

planting density
As-constructed drawings marked up with

HOLD POINT: Superintendent AND Wetland Designer inspection and sign-off before proceeding.
PLANT ESTABLISHMENT
Plants have matured to a point where the

water level in macrophyte zone can be
allowed to reach design level (typically
6–10 weeks after installation).
Inlet zone plants established

(500 mm above normal water level
and propagation is occurring)
Date: Date:
FIVE REFERENCES
Chapter 2 References
Australian Standards (2003), AS 4419-2003—Soils for Maroochy Shire Council (2007), Manual for Erosion and Sediment
landscaping and garden use. Control (Version 1.1). http://www.maroochy.qld.gov.au/
environment/sitePage.cfm?code=manual_sediment_erosion.
International Erosion Control Association (IECA) (2008)
Accessed 19 February 2009.
Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control, International
Erosion Control association (Australasia), Picton NSW. South East Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership
(SEQHWP) (2006), Water Sensitive Urban Design Technical
Leinster, S. (2006) ‘Delivering the Final Product — Establishing
Design Guidelines for South East Queensland. South East
Water Sensitive Urban Design Systems’, in A. Deletic and T.
Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership, Brisbane.
Fletcher (eds), 7th International Conference on Urban Drainage
Modelling and 4th International Conference on Water Sensitive VicRoads (2004) Drainage of Subsurface Water from Roads
Urban Design Book of Proceedings, Volume 2, Melbourne. — Technical Bulletin No 32. http://webapps.vicroads.vic.gov.au/
VRNE/vrbscat.nsf/CatalogByCategory/886A25970B50E572CA2
Maroochy Shire Council (2007), Manual for Erosion and
56BF3000604DB?OpenDocument. Accessed 27 February 2009.
Sediment Control (Version 1.1). http://www.maroochy.qld.gov.
au/environment/sitePage.cfm?code=manual_sediment_
erosion. Accessed 19 February 2009. Chapter 4 References
Australian Standards (2003), AS 4419–Soils for landscaping
and garden use.
Design Guidelines for South East Queensland, South East International Erosion Control Association (IECA, 2008),
Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership, Brisbane. Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control, International
Erosion Control association (Australasia), Picton NSW.
Chapter 3 References Leinster, S. (2006) ‘Delivering the Final Product — Establishing

Australian Standards (2007), AS2439 Part 1 — Perforated Water Sensitive Urban Design Systems’, in A. Deletic and T.
plastics drainage and effluent pipe and fittings - Perforated Fletcher (eds), 7th International Conference on Urban Drainage
drainage pipe and associated fittings. Modelling and 4th International Conference on Water Sensitive
Urban Design Book of Proceedings, Volume 2, Melbourne.
Australian Standards (2003), AS 4419 — Soils for landscaping
and garden use. Maroochy Shire Council (2007), Manual for Erosion and Sediment
Control (Version 1.1). http://www.maroochy.qld.gov.au/
Creek to Coral (in press) WSUD Guidelines for the Dry Tropics.
environment/sitePage.cfm?code=manual_sediment_erosion.
Facility for Advancing Water Biofiltration (FAWB) (2008), Accessed 19 February 2009.
Guideline Specifications for Soil Media for Soil Media in
Bioretention Systems. Melbourne, Facility for Advancing Water
Biofiltration. http://www.monash.edu.au/fawb/. Accessed 16
Design Guidelines for South East Queensland. Brisbane, South
February 2009.
East Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership, Brisbane.
Hatt, B. and Le Coustumer, S. (2008), PRACTICE NOTE 1: In Situ
Measurement of Hydraulic Conductivity. Melbourne, Facility
for Advancing Water Biofiltration. http://www.monash.edu.au/
fawb/products/fawb-practice-note1-in-situ-measurement-of-
hydraulic-conductivity.pdf. Accessed 18 February 2009.
International Erosion Control Association (IECA) (2008) Best

Practice Erosion and Sediment Control, International Erosion
Control association (Australasia), Picton NSW.
Leinster, S. (2006) ‘Delivering the Final Product — Establishing

Water Sensitive Urban Design Systems’, in A. Deletic and T.
Fletcher (eds), 7th International Conference on Urban Drainage
Modelling and 4th International Conference on Water Sensitive
Urban Design Book of Proceedings, Volume 2, Melbourne.

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Construction and Establishment

Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention

Version 1.1, April 2010

Project Manager: Sarah Jones (Water by Design program, SEQHWP).

Editor: Justine Gannon (Proof etc).

2. Andrew O’Neill (DesignFlow)

3. Alan Hoban (Water by Design, EDAW Ecological Engineering)

4. Sally Boer (EDAW Ecological Engineering)

5. Robin Allison (DesignFlow, EDAW Ecological Engineering)

6. Peter Breen (EDAW Ecological Engineering)

7. Geoff Hunter (J Wyndham Prince)

Guidelines for South East Queensland (SEQHWP, 2006).

Water by Design welcomes feedback on the guidelines which can be directed to

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

South East Queensland Healthy Waterways Partnership

Further information on the SEQ Healthy Waterways Partnership and the

This document is available for download from www.waterbydesign.com.au

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

1.1 Background and context of the guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

Concept Design Guidelines

MUSIC Modelling Guidelines

Stormwater Harvesting Guidelines Deemed to Comply Solutions

Construction and Establishment

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands 9

• Considerations and specifications

Table 1.1: Management measures addressed in the guidelines

CHAPTER MANAGEMENT DESCRIPTION

Bioretention systems are now common stormwater treatment devices in new

Constructed wetlands are a combination of soil, aquatic vegetation and

10 Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

Certification Provides guidance on certification requirements.

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands 11

12 Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

Future versions of these guidelines may be developed

Users of the Construction and Establishment Guidelines:

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands 13

There are two typical swale ‘types’:

• Conventional swales — Conventional swales are

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands 15

Table 2.1: Roles and responsibilities for constructing,

PERSON ROLE DESCRIPTION

16 Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands

• Ordering materials: All required materials should be

Table 2.2: Ordering materials and timing

MATERIAL ITEMS POTENTIAL TIMING OF SUPPLY

Outlet pipe Standard pipe. 2–3 days

Standard box culvert. 2–3 days

Non-standard or large pipes or culverts. 5+ days

Topsoil If soil is required to be imported to the site. 1–2 days

Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands 17

Table 2.3: Swale tolerances

SWALE ELEMENT CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS TOLERANCE METHOD

Hydraulic Hydraulic structures control the movement of ± 25 mm Survey

- the overflow pit crest level

- the outlet pipe invert levels upstream and

- the crest of any check dams, where included in the

2.4.3 Flush kerbs

Flush kerbs or kerbs with regular breaks help to create

18 Construction and Establishment Guidelines: Swales, Bioretention Systems and Wetlands