CSLB C-27 Landscaping ContractorSite Preparation and DrainageEasy
A landscape contractor is planning a new planting bed on a site with a moderate slope. To prevent erosion and improve water infiltration, which of the following practices is most effective for soil preparation in this scenario?
- ACreating level terraces along the contour of the slope.
- BCompacting the soil to create a stable base for planting.
- CApplying a thick layer of sand to the soil surface.
- DDeep ripping the entire area to a depth of 3 feet.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Creating level terraces along the contour of the slope.
Creating level terraces along the contour of a slope effectively reduces the gradient, slows water runoff, and increases infiltration, thereby preventing erosion and improving soil moisture for plantings. This is a fundamental erosion control technique for sloped planting areas.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Compacting soil reduces infiltration, which is detrimental for planting and can increase runoff and erosion.
- C. Applying sand can alter soil texture but does not directly address erosion control on a slope and may worsen water retention if not mixed properly.
- D. Deep ripping can disturb soil structure and exacerbate erosion on slopes if not properly managed.
Terracing
A method of shaping land into a series of level or gently sloping steps or platforms along the contours of a slope.
- Reduces effective slope length and gradient.
- Intercepts and slows down water runoff.
- Increases water infiltration into the soil.
- Prevents soil erosion on sloped land.
Memory trick: Terraces Tame Tough Terrain, Turning Trouble into Tranquility.