What type of fence is designed to filter sediment while allowing water to pass through?

A silt fence is specifically designed to filter sediment from stormwater runoff while allowing water to pass through. The typical construction of a silt fence consists of a geotextile fabric that is supported by posts driven into the ground, creating a barrier that intercepts sediment-laden water. When water flows through the fabric, the sediment is trapped on the upstream side of the fence, preventing it from entering nearby water bodies and minimizing erosion during construction activities or land disturbances.

This type of fencing is often used in construction sites, land disturbances, and other scenarios where sediment control is necessary to comply with environmental regulations. It is not intended to hold back large quantities of water, nor does it provide a structural or aesthetic barrier like a traditional fence. Therefore, its primary purpose is to protect the environment by reducing sediment transport rather than serving as a traditional boundary or decorational element.