To prevent erosion or compaction in an area bearing heavy traffic, what measure is recommended?

• A. Move surface water runoff through the area to ease compaction
• B. Surface the area with paving of some type
• C. Mulch the area heavily to retain water
• D. Plant a flower border to alter traffic use

Answer: (B)

Heavy traffic wears down and compact soil, making it hard for water to infiltrate and easier for soil to be displaced, which leads to erosion. Paving the area provides a hard, stable surface that bears the load instead of the soil, so the soil structure remains intact and erosion from run-off is minimized. With paving, you also control and manage surface water more effectively through proper drainage. Other options rely on soil, mulch, or vegetation that heavy traffic will damage or displace, and directing runoff through the area can actually worsen erosion. So, a paved surface is the most reliable way to prevent both erosion and compaction in a high-traffic area.