Living Environment Regents Practice Test

Which forest management practice could help maintain natural cycles?

1. Selective logging

2. Clear-cutting

3. Aggressive pest control

4. Monoculture planting

The correct answer is: Selective logging

Selective logging is the practice that helps to maintain natural cycles in a forest ecosystem. This method involves carefully choosing and removing only certain trees while leaving the rest of the forest intact. This allows for the preservation of biodiversity, as it supports the growth of various species and maintains habitats for wildlife. It also minimizes soil erosion and disruption of the forest's natural processes, such as regeneration and the nutrient cycle. In contrast, clear-cutting involves removing all trees in a specific area, which disrupts the ecosystem significantly and can lead to loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, and alterations in water cycles. Aggressive pest control often targets many organisms indiscriminately and can disrupt food webs and ecological balance. Monoculture planting, which focuses on growing a single type of crop, can lead to soil depletion and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases since it lacks genetic diversity. Therefore, selective logging stands out as the practice that nurtures the balance and sustainability of natural forest ecosystems.