Question

Have a look at this figure, which illustrates how grazing cattle can have a negative impact on soil quality.

cattle grazing

Let's imagine that there are lots of prairie dogs in this pasture, and they burrow underground, making numerous holes and turning over the soil. This activity would most likely

Group of answer choices

compress and compact the topsoil, therefore increasing soil losses on account of erosion.

worsen the effects of overgrazing by cattle.

improve the soil by limiting aeration and decreasing water infiltration.

counteract some of the negative effects of overgrazing, such as compaction, by aerating the soil.

neither improve nor worsen the condition of the soil.

Answer 1

The activity of prairie dogs burrowing underground and turning over the soil would most likely:

**Counteract some of the negative effects of overgrazing, such as compaction, by aerating the soil.**

Prairie dog burrowing can help aerate the soil, which can be beneficial in counteracting the compaction that often occurs due to overgrazing by cattle. This aeration can enhance water infiltration and improve overall soil health.