In North Carolina, demand for fresh water has increased dramatically. One of the main reasons for this is increased water use for agriculture. Respond to the following in 3–5 sentences:

Question

In North Carolina, demand for fresh water has increased dramatically. One of the main reasons for this is increased water use for agriculture. Respond to the following in 3–5 sentences:

Relate one effect of agricultural water use on North Carolina's river basins.
Relate one conservation strategy that would reduce the effect of agricultural practices on water quality.
(4 points)

Answer 1

One effect of agricultural water use on North Carolina's river basins is increased nutrient pollution from runoff, leading to water quality degradation and harmful algal blooms. To reduce this effect, implementing precision irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation can help minimize excess water and nutrient runoff into the river basins. This conservation strategy can help improve water quality and protect the health of North Carolina's river ecosystems.