Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

Which agency should you contact before any digging work?

1. Bureau of Land Management 800-242 1873

2. Department of Natural Resources 211

3. Miss Utility 811

4. City Hall 411

The correct answer is: Miss Utility 811

Contacting Miss Utility at 811 is crucial before any digging work because this agency is responsible for coordinating the marking of underground utility lines in many states. When you call, they send out professionals to locate and mark the positions of buried utilities such as gas, water, electricity, and telecommunications lines. This helps prevent accidental damage to these lines, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations related to excavation. In many areas, the law requires individuals and contractors to call 811 before starting any digging activities. Doing so not only protects utilities but also safeguards those engaged in the digging work, the surrounding environment, and the general public. The other options, while they may have roles in land management, natural resource oversight, or other municipal functions, do not specifically focus on the crucial role of marking underground utility lines. Therefore, they are not appropriate contacts for ensuring safety and compliance prior to any digging activities.