Landscaping License Practice Test

According to the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, turf is prohibited on slopes greater than what percentage?

1. 15 percent

2. 20 percent

3. 25 percent

4. 30 percent

The correct answer is: 25 percent

The correct answer indicates that turf is prohibited on slopes greater than 25 percent according to the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. This regulation is put in place primarily for environmental and maintenance considerations. Turf grasses require significant amounts of water, and maintaining them on steep slopes can lead to increased runoff and erosion, especially during heavy rainstorms. Such erosion not only damages the landscape but can also carry away topsoil, which is vital for plant growth. By prohibiting turf on slopes exceeding 25 percent, the ordinance aims to promote more sustainable landscaping practices, encouraging the use of drought-resistant and native plants that require less maintenance and water. This regulation also helps to minimize hazards related to the maintenance of steep slopes, which can be difficult to mow or care for without risk of injury. In contrast, lower percentages might allow for turf in more manageable areas or flat regions where water retention and erosion are less of a concern, aligning with the goals of promoting water efficiency while maintaining landscape aesthetics. Choosing to limit turf in steeper areas supports more environmentally friendly practices and ensures that landscaping efforts are both practical and sustainable.