Stockpile topsoil that's disturbed during sitework

Top soil is a valuable resource, so take care of it.
Topsoil should be carefully protected during construction. As a first step, topsoil on any area that is to be excavated should be scraped off and stockpiled for later use. Stockpile the soil in a location where it will not suffocate tree roots, and re-spread the soil as soon as possible. If it will be several months before the soil is used it should be planted (preferably with a native grass) to prevent erosion.

Green points

LEED for HomesLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is the residential green building program from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). While this program is primarily designed for and applicable to new home projects, major gut rehabs can qualify. : Stockpiling and protecting disturbed soil for reuse is a prerequisite (SS 1).

NGBSNational Green Building Standard Based on the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines and passed through ANSI. This standard can be applied to both new homes, remodeling projects, and additions. /ICC-700: 5 points for stockpiling or covering topsoil for reuse later (404.3).

Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia

Landscape: Native Plants and Soil

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