Final answer:
Changes in land use, like increased urbanization, agricultural practices, and deforestation, can all negatively affect the quality of water in local streams by introducing various forms of pollution which, in turn, harm aquatic ecosystems and possibly human health. The correct answer is D. All of the above.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changes in land use can significantly impact the water quality of local streams. There are several ways this can occur:
- Increased urbanization often leads to pollution through stormwater runoff that carries oil, grease, heavy metals, and other contaminants into streams.
- Agricultural runoff can introduce harmful substances like pesticides and nitrogen-rich fertilizers into waterways, potentially causing eutrophication and harm to aquatic ecosystems.
- Deforestation can increase sedimentation in streams, as there are fewer trees to anchor the soil. This not only clouds the water and harms aquatic life but can also contribute to changes in the stream's flow and volume.
Therefore, the answer is D. All of the above. Each land use change has the potential to degrade water quality by introducing various pollutants, which can then affect local ecosystems and human health.