What is the primary action to take after final grading to prevent raindrop impacts from causing erosion?

The primary action to take after final grading to prevent raindrop impacts from causing erosion is to stabilize disturbed areas immediately. This is crucial because freshly graded soil is particularly vulnerable to erosion from rain and wind. When soil is disturbed, its structure may be compromised, making it more susceptible to dislodgment by raindrop impacts.

By stabilizing the area right after grading—through methods such as applying mulch, planting grass, or using erosion control blankets—you help protect the soil surface, reducing the likelihood of erosion and sediment runoff. This immediate response is vital for maintaining soil integrity and promoting vegetation growth, which can further help in stabilizing the soil through root systems.

In contrast, delaying stabilization can lead to increased erosion during rain events. Implementing a maintenance program, while important, does not directly address the immediate threats to freshly disturbed soil. Increasing soil slope is not a preventive measure but rather a modification that can potentially exacerbate erosion issues in some contexts. Thus, immediate stabilization is the key action to mitigate the impact of raindrop erosion effectively.