What is a Sediment Forebay?

A sediment forebay is a settling basin or plunge pool constructed at the incoming discharge points of a stormwater retention pond. The purpose of a sediment forebay is to allow sediment to settle from the incoming stormwater runoff before it is delivered back into the environment. A sediment forebay helps to isolate the sediment deposition in an accessible area, which facilitates maintenance efforts. A sediment forebay is an essential component of most detention basins designed today.