Which practice is recommended to prevent surface water contamination?

The recommended practice to prevent surface water contamination involves avoiding slopes. This is important because sloped areas can lead to increased runoff, especially during rain events. When water flows over a slope, it can carry contaminants from the surface directly into nearby waterways. By minimizing or avoiding development on slopes, the risk of runoff carrying pollutants into surface water bodies is significantly reduced.

Using products right before heavy rain, for example, is counterproductive, as any chemicals or fertilizers applied to the ground can easily wash away into surface water during a storm. Planting near water bodies, while beneficial for habitat, may actually increase the potential for contaminants to enter the water if not managed properly. Ignoring surface-water advisory statements is detrimental as it leads to a disregard for conditions that could exacerbate contamination risks. Thus, avoiding slopes is a proactive approach to safeguarding water quality.