Design and Construction Process

A planner, engineer, and technician visit the site to review soils, drainage, animal traffic, topography, and other site conditions.

Test pits, surveys, and mapping may be conducted to guide design decisions.

Farmers discuss management needs, access, and construction timing. 

Engineers develop detailed drawings, calculations, and cost estimates using AutoCAD and approved WAC templates. 

Designs progress through 30%, 60%, and 90% reviews before final certification by a Professional Engineer (PE) and ultimately signed-off on by the landowner participant. 

If the project is on an eased property, the WAC Easement Program reviews the plan for compliance. 

Certified designs move to WAC’s procurement team, which prepares bid documents for various bidding threshold processes. 

BMP contracts are facilitated by WAC on behalf of the landowner and require active participation from the landowner and contractor to work together. 

Projects with an engineer’s estimate up to $100,000 allow for the participant to select the list of contracts solicited for a bid. One contractor minimum is required for simple purchase (under $34,999) and a minimum of four for written quotes ($35,000-$99,999). Projects over $100,000 require public notice and site showing at the building location.

Bids are awarded to the lowest responsible, responsive contractor under WAC procurement policy.  

Farmers are involved throughout and informed of schedules and next steps. 

Construction takes place during the main building season (typically April–November). 

WAC technicians serve as project inspectors, monitoring progress, materials, and workmanships. 

Key inspection points such as rebar tying, concrete pours, and stream work must be observed by staff.  All activities are documented in daily logs and photos. 

When construction is complete, the Certifying Engineer verifies the BMP meets all standards, along with final sign-off form the landowner participant. 

WAC would facilitate payment and the farmer would maintain ownership and be required to manage the BMP system in accordance with the Operation & Maintenance (O&M) Agreement outlining care and upkeep responsibilities. 

WAC maintains a Repair and Replacement Program for older or damaged BMPs that remain essential for water-quality protection. 

Projects are periodically inspected to ensure ongoing performance, safety, and compliance. 

Technical support is also available for any questions or issues that may arise related to farm operations and BMP functionality.