Final answer:
The statement is true; deforestation leads to negative environmental impacts such as hillside erosion, reduced soil fertility, and man-made droughts, along with diminished biodiversity and altered water cycles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement, 'Deforestation can lead to hillside erosion, reduced soil fertility, and a man-made drought,' is true. When trees are cut down at a rate faster than they can be replenished, known as deforestation, there are several detrimental consequences to the environment. One consequence is the loss of root structures that help to hold soil in place, which can lead to hillside erosion, especially during heavy rains. This soil erosion can also lead to reduced soil fertility, as nutrient-rich topsoil is washed away, making it difficult for plants to grow and reducing the land's agricultural value.
In addition to soil-related issues, deforestation disrupts the local water cycle by removing trees that contribute to moisture in the atmosphere through the process of transpiration, potentially leading to reduced rainfall and the creation of man-made drought conditions. This alteration in the water cycle not only affects water availability but also further diminishes the capacity of the land to support a diverse range of plant and animal species, leading to biodiversity losses. For instance, livestock farming, which accounts for a significant percentage of all deforestation, reduces habitats for numerous species and is a contributing factor to the buildup of greenhouse gases, soil erosion, and changes in rainfall patterns.