About the Program
The Erosion, Sediment, and Turbidity Control Program integrates research, training, and technical guidance to improve practice and protect water quality across North Carolina.
Program Overview & History
The Erosion, Sediment, and Turbidity Control Program advances research, training, and practice in erosion and sediment control to protect soil and water resources across North Carolina. The program connects applied research with professional education, certification, technical resources, and field-based testing and demonstration of erosion and sediment control practices.
| 25+ Years | 6,000+ Professionals | Research + Training + Demonstration |
|---|---|---|
| Supporting erosion and sediment control education and practice in North Carolina. | Certified or trained through the program. | Connecting applied science with field implementation. |
Established in 1999, the Sediment and Erosion Control Research and Education Facility (SECREF) was created to provide field-based evaluation of erosion and sediment control practices under controlled construction site conditions. Early work focused on erosion control products, turbidity reduction, flocculants, and sediment treatment, providing a research base for practical guidance in North Carolina.
Over time, the program expanded into post-construction soil restoration, compost and infiltration research, roadside stormwater, sediment basin performance, slope stabilization, and emerging water quality issues. SECREF also became a statewide training and demonstration site, supporting NCDOT, NCDEQ, contractors, consultants, regulators, and other practitioners through workshops, field days, and applied demonstrations.
The program continues to connect applied research with field implementation, professional education, and water quality protection.
Our Team
The program brings together faculty, staff, and students with expertise in erosion and sediment control, soil and water management, stormwater, water quality, and applied research.
Facilities
Research, training, and demonstrations are supported by facilities at Lake Wheeler Road Field Laboratory, including the Erosion & Sediment Control Research Facility and Booth Training Center. Learn more →
Partners & Collaborators
The program works with state agencies, local governments, industry, professional organizations, researchers, and other NC State programs to develop and evaluate practical approaches to erosion, sediment, and turbidity control.