How is erosion primarily controlled on a site?

Erosion is primarily controlled on a site by limiting the size and duration of exposed soils. This approach helps to minimize the risk of soil displacement by wind and water that can occur when soil is left unprotected. By reducing the area of soil that is exposed to erosive forces and limiting the time those soils remain exposed, the potential for erosion is significantly decreased. This strategy often includes techniques such as temporary seeding, covering exposed areas with mulch or fabric, and implementing staged construction practices to ensure that soil is only disturbed when necessary.

While restricting the amount of exposed soils is a similar concept, it does not address the duration aspect. The use of heavy machinery, on the other hand, does not inherently control erosion and can sometimes exacerbate the problem if not managed correctly. Installing multiple sediment traps is beneficial for sediment control but does not directly prevent erosion on the soil surface itself. Therefore, the most effective overall strategy combines both limiting the size and duration of exposure to manage erosion effectively.