PM10 emissions in the Coachella Valley are due primarily to blow sand that ground into fine particles by motor vehicle tires and subsequently re-entrained into the atmosphere. Strategies to reduce the amount of blow sand deposited on roadway surfaces include wind fencing and soil stabilization. This project implemented PM10 control through the use of a "living wind fence" as well as compaction and stabilization of exposed earthen slopes.
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The construction start date was November 26, 2007. Project completion was May 12, 2008, with final acceptance on June 25, 2008.
The project included the planting of 315 Honey Mesquite trees along the western bank of the Morongo Creek. The Honey Mesquite trees are planted four to a row on a diagonal to the prevailing wind direction for sand interception to occur approximately 250 to 300 feet from the levee.
The controls for the irrigation system are installed in a remote location and include a vandal resistant protection system. The system is powered by a LEIT 4000 Solar Powered Control System.
The purpose of this project was to reduce the amount of blow sand from the Morongo Creek Levee and reduce blow sand deposition on Ventura Drive, Vista Chino Road, and Verona Road. The project consisted of installing a living wind break for approximately 1/2 mile, the associated irrigation system, as well as soil compaction and stabilization of the exposed earth slopes.
The use of a living wind fence is more aesthetically pleasing from a visual perspective as compared to a traditional slat-design wind fence and offers a more natural appearance. The natural wind break also requires less overall maintenance as compared to a traditional fence. While irrigation and power are not required for a traditional wind fence, the poles and slat materials do require regular maintenance.
All trees are planted and growing. The effectiveness of the trees as a blowsand wind fence will increase as they approach mature height. Sand removal between tree rows will be required on a five to ten year cycle once the trees reach a height of eight to ten feet.