Evaluate Conservation Solutions Practice Test

A mountain area has a rare alpine plant that is being trampled near a popular trail. Officials will evaluate solutions using multiple criteria: scientific criteria (plant survival, soil erosion) and social/economic constraints (tourism access, cost).

Evidence:

• Plant survival is 70% in areas with low foot traffic and 35% near the trail edge.
• Soil erosion is 2× higher on informal “shortcut” paths.
• Solution A: Build a raised boardwalk over the sensitive area. Cost $180,000; predicted to reduce trampling by 80% and erosion by 40%; may temporarily close the trail for 2 months.
• Solution B: Add signs asking hikers to stay on the trail. Cost $5,000; evidence from other sites shows signs alone reduce shortcut use by 10%.
• Solution C: Close the trail permanently. Cost $20,000 for barriers and enforcement; predicted to reduce trampling by 95%; reduces access for tourism.

Which statement correctly weighs the criteria and evidence when evaluating a solution?

A coral reef area is being damaged by boat anchors. The agency will evaluate conservation solutions using multiple criteria: scientific criteria (coral cover, fish habitat) and economic/social constraints (cost, boating access).

Evidence:

• Surveys show coral cover is 45% at sites without anchoring and 30% at frequently anchored sites.
• Solution 1: Install 20 mooring buoys. Cost $100,000 upfront + $10,000/year maintenance; predicted to reduce anchor damage by 70%; boating access remains.
• Solution 2: Ban anchoring in the reef zone with patrols. Cost $30,000/year; predicted to reduce anchor damage by 90%; some boaters report they would stop visiting due to inconvenience.
• Solution 3: Provide brochures about careful anchoring. Cost $8,000/year; evidence from similar reefs shows anchor damage decreases by about 15%.

Which evaluation of the evidence is best supported when using multiple criteria?