Which action is required near streams under the forest practices act?

• A. Clear-cutting near streams
• B. Retain and protect trees and plants next to streams
• C. Remove all vegetation within 10 feet
• D. Plant crops near streams

Answer: (B)

Protecting water quality and stream habitat is achieved by keeping vegetation intact right along streams. The forest practices act requires retaining and protecting trees and plants in the riparian zone because those plants shade the water, stabilize banks, and filter sediment and nutrients before they reach the stream. This helps keep stream temperatures cooler and supports aquatic life. Removing vegetation, clearing near streams, or planting crops near streams would remove that protective buffer and could increase erosion and runoff, so they don’t meet the requirement.