Silt fence, sometimes called a "filter fence," is a temporary sediment control device used on construction sites to protect water quality in nearby streams, rivers, lakes, and seas from sediment in stormwater runoff. It can be reinforced with wire, fencing, or netting. It can also be unreinforced and simply fastened to the geotextile along each wood stake.
Silt fence intercepts and detains small amounts of sediment from disturbed areas during construction operations and can reduce runoff velocities down a slope. Silt fencing is one of the last lines of defense against any runoff contaminants, silts, or debris during the construction phase. It can be quickly deployed, repaired, or removed with a small crew.