CPESC Erosion Control Methods & Techniques 4

Question 1

When designing a vegetated swale for erosion control, the most critical hydraulic parameter to verify is that:

Accepted Answer

Flow velocity during the design storm does not exceed the permissible velocity for the lining material

Answer

Permissible velocity limits ensure the swale lining material (grass, rock, etc.) is not scoured or damaged during storm events.

Question 2

A CPESC professional inspects a construction site after a 2-inch rain event and finds silt fence with ponded water 18 inches deep. The appropriate response is to:

Accepted Answer

Assess whether overflow or failure occurred and repair any damaged sections

Answer

Some ponding behind silt fence is expected, but inspection should verify the fence held, no overflow occurred, and damage is repaired promptly.

Question 3

Which RUSLE factor accounts for the management and conservation practices used on a field?

Accepted Answer

P factor (support practice)

Answer

The P factor in RUSLE represents the ratio of soil loss with a specific support practice (contour farming, terracing, strip cropping) to straight-row farming.

Question 4

Bioengineering techniques such as live stake plantings are most appropriate for:

Accepted Answer

Actively eroding streambanks where root establishment can stabilize soil

Answer

Live stakes of willow and other species root quickly in moist streambank soils, providing long-term biological stabilization of eroding banks.

Question 5

The purpose of a construction entrance/exit stabilization pad is to:

Accepted Answer

Reduce tracking of mud and sediment from construction sites onto public roads

Answer

Stabilized construction entrances use coarse aggregate or other materials to knock mud off vehicle tires before they exit onto public roads.

(CPESC) Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control Practice Test

(CPESC) Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control Practice Test

CPESC Erosion Control Methods & Techniques 4