Which of the following is classified as an erosion control BMP?

Which of the following is classified as an erosion control BMP?

• A. Installation of culverts/slope drains
• B. Establishing vegetation (native) / seeding
• C. Construction of homes
• D. Diverting channels

Answer: (B)

Establishing vegetation and seeding is an erosion control BMP because it directly stabilizes the soil surface. A protective ground cover—especially native vegetation—reduces raindrop impact, slows and infiltrates runoff, and the plant roots bind the soil, helping to prevent soil particles from being detached and carried away. This is the classic, foundational approach to preventing erosion on disturbed or vulnerable soils. The other options focus more on moving or handling water rather than stopping soil from being lost in the first place. Culverts and slope drains are about conveying water and reducing erosive flow paths, not actively stabilizing the soil surface. Diverting channels redirects water to manage erosion risk in different areas, which is a drainage/sediment management activity rather than a direct soil stabilization measure. Constructing homes is land disturbance that can increase erosion risk if not managed with proper BMPs.

Establishing vegetation and seeding is an erosion control BMP because it directly stabilizes the soil surface. A protective ground cover—especially native vegetation—reduces raindrop impact, slows and infiltrates runoff, and the plant roots bind the soil, helping to prevent soil particles from being detached and carried away. This is the classic, foundational approach to preventing erosion on disturbed or vulnerable soils.

The other options focus more on moving or handling water rather than stopping soil from being lost in the first place. Culverts and slope drains are about conveying water and reducing erosive flow paths, not actively stabilizing the soil surface. Diverting channels redirects water to manage erosion risk in different areas, which is a drainage/sediment management activity rather than a direct soil stabilization measure. Constructing homes is land disturbance that can increase erosion risk if not managed with proper BMPs.