Question

multiple answer 1 point
which of the following are impacts of clearcutting as described on page 11 - 12? choose all that apply
clearcutting is efficient and allows for easy replanting of trees, but it causes rapid and near complete destruction of the plants and animals in the clearcut area.
often to access the trees, smaller plants are first cleared away using herbicides. this introduces toxins to the environment as well as removes all plants that are holding soil in place.
when it rains a lot of soil is lost due to runoff, which increases the nitrogen and phosphorus levels in the watershed.
it also causes an increase in suspended solids in the watershed. the increase in the concentration of suspended solids will increase turbidity in the water and may result in physiological stress to fish.
clearcutting is the most profitable method of harvesting timber and at the same time the most environmentally damaging.
the combination of few remaining plants and soil disturbed by the creation of roads increase soil erosion.
increased soil erosion and runoff also allow naturally acidic soils the result from the decomposition of needles in conifer forests to wash into streams which lowers the ph level of the water.

Explanation:

To determine the impacts of clearcutting, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Clearcutting’s efficiency in replanting but its destruction of local ecosystems is a known impact.
• Option B: Using herbicides to clear smaller plants introduces toxins and removes soil - holding vegetation, both impacts of clearcutting.
• Option C: Runoff from clearcut areas (due to lack of vegetation) carries soil, altering nutrient levels in watersheds.
• Option D: Clearcutting increases suspended solids in water, raising turbidity and stressing fish, which is a valid impact.
• Option E: Clearcutting is profitable for timber but highly damaging to the environment, a key characteristic.
• Option F: Fewer plants and road - disturbed soil from clearcutting lead to increased soil erosion.
• Option G: Erosion and runoff from clearcut areas carry acidic soils into water bodies, lowering water pH.

All these options describe impacts consistent with clearcutting’s effects on ecosystems, soil, and water quality.

Answer:

A. Clearcutting is efficient and allows for easy replanting of trees, but it causes rapid and near complete destruction of the plants and animals in the clearcut area.
B. Often to access the trees, smaller plants are first cleared away using herbicides. This introduces toxins to the environment as well as removes all plants that are holding soil in place.
C. When it rains a lot of soil is lost due to runoff, which increases the nitrogen and phosphorus levels in the watershed.
D. It also causes an increase in suspended solids in the watershed. The increase in the concentration of suspended solids will increase turbidity in the water and may result in physiological stress to fish.
E. Clearcutting is the most profitable method of harvesting timber and at the same time the most environmentally damaging.
F. The combination of few remaining plants and soil disturbed by the creation of roads increase soil erosion.
G. Increased soil erosion and runoff also allow naturally acidic soils the result from the decomposition of needles in conifer forests to wash into rivers or streams which lowers the pH level of the water.