Which of the following activities is included in the disturbance definition for NPDES Phase 1?

The disturbance definition for NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) Phase 1 includes several activities that contribute to soil erosion, sedimentation, and the potential for stormwater pollution. Clearing, which is the process of removing vegetation, trees, and other ground cover, falls within the scope of disturbance because it exposes soil to erosion. When vegetation is removed from a site, it loses its ability to hold soil in place, making it susceptible to runoff and sediment transport.

In contrast, site design, landscaping, and demolition without construction may not directly result in soil disturbance as defined by NPDES Phase 1. For example, site design might involve planning and layout phases that do not yet disturb the ground. Landscaping could involve placing plants without removing existing ground cover, while demolition without subsequent construction may not disturb soil if the land is left intact. These activities do not inherently result in the same level of exposure and potential erosion as the act of clearing does. Thus, clearing is the correct answer as it directly aligns with the activities that are clearly specified in the disturbance definition for NPDES Phase 1.