Sample Exam Questions – United States

  1. EPA requires signers of the NOI to retain site inspection reports as part of the SWPPP for at least:
    a. One year from the date that the permit coverage expires or is terminated.
    b. Two years from the date that the permit coverage expires or is terminated.
    c. Three years from the date that the permit coverage expires or is terminated.
    d. There is no requirement.
    Answer

    c. Three years from the date that the permit coverage expires or is terminated.

  2. The 2022 CGP requires the recording of rainfall amounts on an inspection report only when 1/4-inch or more of precipitation occurs.
    a. True
    b. False
    Answer

    b. False: From the CGP 4.2.3: “For any 24-hour period during which there is 0.25 inches or more of rainfall, you must record the total rainfall measured for that day...” You will need to record rainfall amounts for each 24 hour period that produces 0.25 inches or more.

  3. When a BMP is deemed inadequate, an inspector must always mandate a specific replacement BMP.
    a. True
    b. False
    Answer

    b. False

  4. Which BMP will remove the least amount of sediment in runoff waters?
    a. A properly installed silt fence barrier placed at the toe of a hill.
    b. A properly designed and installed sediment basin.
    c. A rock barrier placed around an area (a.k.a. catch basin) drain.
    d. A straw bale barrier placed in front of a curb opening.
    Answer

    d. A straw bale barrier placed in front of a curb opening.

  5. Clay soils are more erodible than silt soils.
    a. True
    b. False
    Answer

    b. False

  6. Which one of the following best represents the definition of sediment?
    a. Displacement of soil particles by wind or water.
    b. Suspended soil particles found in runoff waters.
    c. Deposition of soil particles.
    d. None of the above.
    Answer

    b. Suspended soil particles found in runoff waters.

  7. When inspecting for planting of seed, it is important for an inspector to determine if:
    a. A seedbed has been properly prepared.
    b. Information on the bag seed tags meet required specifications.
    c. Proper seed planting equipment is used.
    d. All of the above.
    Answer

    d. All of the above.

  8. When inspecting a sediment basin, the most important item to inspect is ensuring:
    a. Water is always in the structure.
    b. The embankments are established in vegetation.
    c. The outlet structure is not clogged with debris.
    d. Only clean and sediment free waters discharge from the system.
    Answer

    c. The outlet structure is not clogged with debris.

  9. Saltation accounts for more soil loss by wind when compared to suspension.
    a. True
    b. False
    Answer

    a. True

  10. According to the 2022 CGP, an inspector must conduct a site inspection on an active construction site:
    a. Daily during the rainy season.
    b. At least once every 14 days.
    c. Monthly when drought conditions exist.
    d. As specified in the SWPPP.
    Answer

    d. As specified in the SWPPP.