What does the term "cut and fill" refer to in earthwork?

The term "cut and fill" refers specifically to the process of removing soil from one location (referred to as "cut") and transporting it to another area where it is added or compacted (referred to as "fill"). This technique is fundamental in earthwork projects, particularly in grading and leveling land. It helps to create uniform surfaces for construction, road building, landscaping, or any other projects requiring flat or properly contoured ground.

Understanding this method is crucial because it plays a significant role in managing the balance of soil movement on construction sites, avoiding excessive waste of materials, and ensuring stability in the final landform. The process often aims to minimize the need for additional soil importation or exportation, thus optimizing resources and costs in large-scale earthwork operations.