Why is monitoring surface water quality important for agriculture?

Monitoring surface water quality is crucial for agriculture primarily to prevent nutrient pollution. Nutrient pollution occurs when excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, enter water bodies, often as a result of agricultural runoff. This can lead to problems such as algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and can harm aquatic life. By monitoring surface water quality, farmers can identify potential sources of nutrient runoff and adjust their practices to minimize this impact, ensuring healthier ecosystems and compliance with environmental regulations. Effective monitoring helps maintain a balance between agricultural productivity and environmental health, making it a fundamental aspect of sustainable agricultural practices. Other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not directly address the critical connection between agricultural practices and the prevention of nutrient pollution.