Final answer:
The Anasazi were able to farm in rugged territory primarily because they developed water conservation techniques, which included the use of small springs to irrigate their crops. Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is C. they discovered small springs and developed water conservation techniques, allowing them to sustain agriculture in the challenging terrain of the Southwest.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Anasazi, also known as Ancient Puebloans, were able to farm in rugged territory by employing sophisticated water conservation techniques. They adapted to their environment by discovering small springs and developing systems to collect and store this water for their agricultural needs. This allowed them to grow crops like corn, beans, and squash, even in dry conditions.
In addition to farming innovations, the Anasazi built large, complex, and beautiful towns, such as the Pueblo Bonito site, which featured storage for their harvests and were cleverly organized around large, open plazas for community gatherings. They also constructed dwellings in the cliffs, known as "cliff dwellers", to provide protection from nomadic raiding groups, becoming a symbol of their adaptability and ingenuity.
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is C. they discovered small springs and developed water conservation techniques, allowing them to sustain agriculture in the challenging terrain of the Southwest.