In the context of reducing runoff in an area, the feature that is most effective is increased vegetation. Here's how each feature impacts runoff:
- Hard soil: Hard, compacted soil can limit water infiltration and increase runoff.
- Steep slopes: Steeper slopes can lead to increased runoff because water runs off more quickly down the slope.
- Paved surfaces: Paved surfaces (like roads and parking lots) prevent water from infiltrating the ground, significantly increasing runoff.
- Increased vegetation: Vegetation helps to absorb water, reduces soil erosion, and promotes infiltration, thereby reducing the amount of runoff.
Therefore, increased vegetation is the feature that helps most effectively reduce runoff.