Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

What is designed to improve groundwater quality before it enters a stream?

1. Wetland restoration

2. Tree planting

3. Soil conservation

4. Pond construction

The correct answer is: Tree planting

The option that is designed to improve groundwater quality before it enters a stream is wetland restoration. Restoring wetlands can significantly enhance groundwater filtration and improve water quality. Wetlands act as natural filters by trapping sediments, nutrients, and pollutants. As water moves through wetland soils, the processes of sedimentation, microbial activity, and chemical transformations work to purify the water. This filtration process is crucial for ensuring that contaminants are reduced before the water enters nearby streams, contributing to overall ecosystem health. Tree planting, while it does have benefits such as reducing erosion and enhancing biodiversity, primarily addresses surface runoff and does not focus specifically on improving groundwater quality. Soil conservation practices are aimed at preventing soil erosion and maintaining soil health rather than directly enhancing groundwater quality. Pond construction can play a role in managing water flow and sediment but might not focus primarily on groundwater quality improvement in the same way that wetland restoration does.