What effect does roughening the surface of cut and fill slopes have?

Roughening the surface of cut and fill slopes has a significant impact on water retention, making it a beneficial practice in erosion and sediment control. When the surface is roughened, it creates a more textured and uneven landscape, which facilitates the accumulation of water. This roughness breaks the flow of water and allows for greater infiltration into the soil as opposed to rapid runoff.

Increased water retention leads to improved soil moisture levels, which can support vegetation growth. Vegetation, in turn, helps stabilize slopes and further reduces erosion by reinforcing the soil structure with roots. Hence, roughening the surface contributes positively to managing both water and erosion, enhancing the overall effectiveness of erosion control measures.

Other options, such as increasing erosion potential or decreasing water retention, do not accurately reflect the benefits of roughening the surface. While it is essential to consider that rough surfaces may have some initial impact on runoff characteristics, the overall effect is a decrease in erosion risk due to enhanced water retention and decreased runoff velocity.