Which of the following actions can be taken to control erosion on a construction site?

Using erosion control blankets and applying mulch effectively mitigates erosion on construction sites by providing a protective layer over disturbed soil. Erosion control blankets are composed of natural or synthetic materials that stabilize the soil, reduce surface runoff, and promote vegetation growth. By covering the soil, these blankets shield it from wind and rain that could dislodge soil particles. Mulch, when applied, serves multiple purposes, such as retaining moisture, regulating soil temperature, and suppressing weed growth. Together, they create an environment conducive to plant growth, which is essential for long-term erosion control as the roots of plants provide natural stabilization to the soil structure.

Planting trees around the site, while beneficial for long-term environmental health, may not provide the immediate erosion control needed during construction activities. Increasing the slope of the site would typically exacerbate erosion problems, as steeper slopes tend to yield greater runoff and soil displacement. Reducing vegetation to allow for better drainage contradicts erosion control principles, as vegetation plays a crucial role in anchoring soil in place and preventing erosion by absorbing water and reducing surface runoff. Thus, using erosion control blankets and applying mulch remains the most effective approach among the options presented.