Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

Which of these processes contributes to sediment loading?

1. Plant growth

2. Urban development

3. Erosion

4. Water conservation

The correct answer is: Erosion

The process of erosion is a significant contributor to sediment loading in water bodies. Erosion occurs when soil and rock particles are detached and carried away by natural forces such as water, wind, or ice. This displacement of earth materials results in increased sediment transport to rivers, lakes, and other aquatic environments. When rainfall occurs, water can wash over soil surfaces, especially if the ground cover is sparse due to factors like urban development or land-use changes. This surface runoff picks up soil particles and transports them into nearby waterways, raising sediment concentrations. Higher sediment loading can have various ecological impacts, including smothering aquatic habitats, degrading water quality, and disrupting the natural sediment balance in aquatic ecosystems. While other processes such as urban development can lead to increased sediment loading, it is important to note that it is the erosion that directly involves the mechanical breakdown and removal of soil materials. Therefore, for understanding sediment dynamics in the context of stormwater management, focusing on erosion provides crucial insight into how sediment enters water systems and highlights the need for erosion control measures to mitigate its effects.