Water Nuggets Practice Exam

Deforestation and poor agricultural practices are significant contributors to soil erosion near water bodies. When forests are cleared, the protective cover that vegetation provides is lost, making the soil more susceptible to erosion by wind and water. This lack of roots from trees and plants means there is less binding of soil, causing it to wash away more easily, especially during rainfall events.

Poor agricultural practices, such as tilling, overgrazing, and the improper use of fertilizers and pesticides, also exacerbate erosion. Tilling disturbs the soil structure and removes vegetation that could otherwise hold the soil in place. Overgrazing by livestock can lead to soil compaction and the removal of plant cover, both of which increase vulnerability to erosion. When these practices are combined with heavy rainfall or flooding near water bodies, the rate of erosion can dramatically increase, leading to sedimentation in rivers and lakes, which can harm aquatic life and disrupt local ecosystems.