As soon as possible after grading a site, plant vegetation on all areas that are not to be paved or otherwise covered. Control dust on graded areas by sprinkling with water, restricting traffic to certain routes, and paving or graveling access roads and driveways. Temporary Measures to Stabilize the Soil Grass provides the cheapest and most effective short-term erosion control. It grows quickly and covers the ground completely. To find the bet seed mixtures and plants for your area, check with your local nursery, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service, or the University of California Cooperative Extension.
Mulches hold soil moisture and provide ground protection from rain damage.
They also provide a favorable environment for starting and growing plants. Mats of excelsior, jute netting and plastic sheets can be effective temporary covers, but they must be in contact with the soil and fastened securely to work effectively. Roof drainage can be collected in barrels or storage containers or routed into lawns, planter boxes and gardens. Excessive runoff should be directed away from your house. Too much water can damage trees and make foundations unstable.