A community must choose between two replanting strategies to reduce the risk of slope failure after a wildfire: Strategy A: Fast-growing grasses with shallow roots. Strategy B: Slower-growing trees and shrubs with deep, varied roots. Which strategy would best reduce slope failure risk, and why?
Answer
A
Strategy A, because grasses can grow back each season and form thick surface mats.
B
Strategy B, because deep and diverse root systems increase slope reinforcement at multiple depths.
C
Strategy B, because slower growth allows the soil to recover before root anchoring begins.
D
Strategy A, because faster soil coverage prevents all forms of surface erosion down sloped landscapes.