Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

On which types of areas may mulch blankets or turf reinforcement mats be required?

1. Flat areas

2. Urban areas

3. Steep slopes or concentrated flow areas

4. Arid regions

The correct answer is: Steep slopes or concentrated flow areas

Mulch blankets and turf reinforcement mats are particularly effective in environments where soil erosion is a significant concern, such as on steep slopes or in areas with concentrated flow. These locations often experience higher water runoff and more aggressive soil displacement due to gravity and water velocity. Using mulch blankets helps establish a protective layer over the soil, which reduces the impact of raindrops, slows down runoff, and promotes water infiltration. Similarly, turf reinforcement mats enhance the ability of vegetation to establish roots and provide additional structural integrity, further stabilizing the soil. In contrast, flat areas may not experience the same level of erosion pressure, urban areas might involve different considerations related to infrastructure, and arid regions often have unique vegetation challenges and water scarcity that don't necessarily align with the use of these erosion control measures. Therefore, the requirement for mulch blankets or turf reinforcement mats is most critical in steep slopes or areas subject to concentrated flow, where the risk of erosion is heightened.