Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

What is necessary for sod placed on steep slopes or in areas of concentrated flow?

1. It should be loosely placed

2. It must be butted together

3. It should only be sprinkled with soil

4. It needs to be watered frequently

The correct answer is: It must be butted together

When installing sod on steep slopes or in areas of concentrated flow, it is crucial that the sod pieces are butted together. This practice helps to ensure that there are no gaps between the sections of sod, which can become vulnerabilities where soil erosion could occur. By butting the sod together tightly, it encourages a more cohesive and stabilized surface, enhancing the sod's ability to retain moisture and resist the forces of water runoff. This method is particularly important on slopes, where water can easily displace loose soil and sod. With tightly placed sod pieces, the root systems begin to establish more effectively, leading to better anchoring of the soil beneath and reducing the risk of washout during heavy rain events. Furthermore, minimal gaps also discourage weed growth, which can compete with the grass for nutrients and water. In contrast, loosely placed sod, merely sprinkling it with soil, or watering it frequently do not address the potential for erosion and instability in these critical areas. The integrity of the installed sod on slopes relies heavily on proper placement and interlocking root development.