Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

Accelerated erosion is a speeding up of erosion due to ___________ activity.

1. Natural

2. Animal

3. Human

4. Climatic

The correct answer is: Human

Accelerated erosion refers to the increased rate of soil erosion that occurs primarily due to human activities. This kind of erosion can be attributed to various land-use practices, such as deforestation, construction, agriculture, and urban development, which disturb the soil and increase its vulnerability to erosive forces like wind and water. Human activity often reduces vegetation cover, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil and protecting it from erosion. When vegetation is removed, not only is the soil exposed to these forces, but the natural processes that normally contribute to soil formation and renewal are disrupted. Additionally, activities such as plowing or heavy machinery use can compact the soil, further exacerbating erosion. In contrast, natural processes, animal activity, and climatic factors can contribute to erosion, but they are generally part of the natural cycle and do not usually lead to the same level of significant, accelerated erosion seen with human intervention. Understanding the role of human impact in erosion is essential for implementing effective erosion control measures, especially in urban planning and land management strategies.