A community must choose between two replanting strategies to reduce the risk of slope failure after a wildfire: Strategy A: Fast-growing grasses with shallow roots. Strategy B: Slower-growing trees and shrubs with deep, varied roots. Which strategy would best reduce slope failure risk, and why?
Answer
A
Strategy A, because grasses can grow back each season and form thick surface mats.
B
Strategy B, because deep and diverse root systems increase slope reinforcement at multiple depths.
C
Strategy B, because slower growth allows the soil to recover before root anchoring begins.
D
Strategy A, because faster soil coverage prevents all forms of surface erosion down sloped landscapes.
Explanation
Deep roots can bind soil below the surface, while varied root systems reinforce the slope at multiple depths. This provides stronger resistance to soil movement than shallow grass roots alone. Strategy B is best because deep and diverse root systems increase slope reinforcement at multiple depths.
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