What is the impact of heavy machinery on soil erosion at construction sites?

The impact of heavy machinery on soil erosion at construction sites is significant, primarily because it compacts the soil and reduces its ability to absorb water. When heavy machinery operates on the soil, it compresses the soil particles, reducing the pore spaces between them. This compaction leads to decreased infiltration, meaning that less water can naturally seep into the ground. As a result, when rain falls, there is a higher likelihood that water will run off the surface rather than being absorbed. This runoff can increase erosion, as the moving water can displace soil particles more readily, leading to a greater loss of topsoil and potential sedimentation in nearby water bodies. Thus, the correct understanding of how heavy machinery affects soil at construction sites recognizes the compaction and its negative consequences on erosion and water management.