Question

1. the state forestry commission has been told that a new set of roads has been planned through a mountainous area. the new roads are designed to shorten travel time to neighboring cities, which could help greatly reduce auto emissions. which action would be most important for government planners as they decide whether or not to proceed with construction of new roads? (sc.912.l.17.13)

a. observing the changing weather conditions during construction work.
b. observing the locations of streams and waterways to avoid having pollutants wash in from the roads.
c. observing behaviors of highway workers to avoid interactions with local wildlife.
d. observing the topsoil for erosion in areas where replanted trees reduce water runoff.

Explanation:

To decide on new road construction, environmental impact on water bodies is crucial. Option A focuses on weather during construction (temporary, not main impact). Option C is about worker - wildlife interaction (not key for road's environmental impact). Option D is about erosion post - replanting (not directly related to road construction's immediate environmental concern). Option B: roads can introduce pollutants; knowing stream/waterway locations helps prevent pollution from entering them, which is a major environmental consideration for the project.

Answer:

B. Observing the locations of streams and waterways to avoid having pollutants wash in from the roads.