A proposed highway will connect two towns across a large valley. The spotted salamander, a local species of concern, lives in the wetlands that cover much of the valley floor. The transportation department must design a plan that minimizes the impact of the new highway on the local wetlands and the spotted salamander population.

Question

Which ,begin emphasis,two,end emphasis, plans would help minimize the impact of the highway on the local wetlands ecosystem?

Answer options with 5 options
A.
Elevate the highway above the valley floor to avoid direct contact with the wetlands.

B.
Collect as many salamanders as possible and move them to wetlands in a different valley.

C.
Build the highway on the valley floor so it divides the wetlands into two separated wetlands.

D.
Construct a storm-water drainage system that keeps highway runoff water out of the wetlands.

E.
Protect the salamander breeding areas from highway runoff and fill in the remainder of the wetlands.

Answer 1

To minimize the impact of the highway on the local wetlands ecosystem and the spotted salamander population, the two best plans would be:

A. Elevate the highway above the valley floor to avoid direct contact with the wetlands.

D. Construct a storm-water drainage system that keeps highway runoff water out of the wetlands.

These options help to prevent detrimental interactions between the highway and the wetlands, protecting the habitat and water quality needed for the spotted salamander and the overall ecosystem.