The town of Winchester recently built an artificial body of water. The reservoir will store drinking water for the town. Which of the following could cause contamination of the water and lead to human health-related problems and loss of native species?

Question

(10 Points)

A. development of a water quality plan

B. building a fence around the reservoir

C. improvements to water treatment facility

D. increased use of fertilizer to keep the vegetation growing

Answer 1

The option that could cause contamination of the water and lead to human health-related problems and loss of native species is:

D. increased use of fertilizer to keep the vegetation growing.

Increased use of fertilizers can lead to runoff into the reservoir, causing nutrient pollution which can result in harmful algal blooms. These blooms can produce toxins harmful to human health and can also disrupt aquatic ecosystems, leading to a decline in native species.