Exploring Freshwater Solutions and Ecosystems

What percentage of Earth's freshwater is easily accessible on the surface?

• Over 75%

• About 25%

• Nearly 50%

• Less than 1%

What is over harvesting in the context of freshwater usage?

• Planting too many crops

• Cutting down too many trees

• Using excessive amounts of water

• Harvesting too many fish

What is the primary cause of negative impacts on the hydrosphere by humans?

• Deforestation

• Industrialization

• Over harvesting of water

• Urbanization

Why is pollution a significant problem for freshwater sources?

• It increases water clarity

• It enhances aquatic life

• It contaminates water, harming wildlife

• It makes the water cooler

How do dams affect freshwater ecosystems?

• By blocking natural river courses

• By cleaning the water

• By creating new habitats

• By increasing water flow

What was a major problem caused by the dam on the Elwha River?

• Increased fish populations

• Improved water quality

• Obstructed salmon migration

• Decreased water temperature

What effect did removing the dam have on the Elwha River?

• Reduced water quality

• Restored habitats for salmon

• Decreased river flow

• Increased pollution

Which river's restoration was discussed as a success story?

• Elwha River

• Nile River

• Amazon River

• Mississippi River

Approximately how many dams have been removed in the United States since 1999?

• About 100

• Around 200

• Approximately 430

• Over 600

What simple action can individuals take to help conserve water?

• Taking shorter showers

• Buying bottled water

• Using more detergent

• Watering lawns daily