Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

Which practice is the first line of defense against soil erosion?

1. Sediment control practices

2. Soil erosion prevention practices

3. Regular inspections

4. Vegetation cover

The correct answer is: Soil erosion prevention practices

The first line of defense against soil erosion is established through soil erosion prevention practices. These practices focus on proactively maintaining the integrity of soil and preventing the conditions that can lead to erosion before it begins. By implementing measures such as maintaining vegetation cover, optimizing land use planning, and using sustainable agricultural practices, the soil’s ability to resist erosion is significantly enhanced. Utilizing vegetation cover is certainly vital in erosion prevention, as it stabilizes the soil and protects it from the impacts of raindrop splash and surface runoff. However, soil erosion prevention practices encompass a broader range of techniques and strategies that aim to address the potential for erosion at its source. This holistic approach ensures that the risk of erosion is minimized right from the start, creating a more effective long-term solution. The other options focus on reactive measures like sediment control practices and regular inspections rather than addressing the underlying causes of erosion. While these are essential components of overall erosion control strategies, they are not preventive in nature and come into play after erosion has started to occur.