If most farms in a region adopted cover crops to improve soil health, what can be inferred about cover crops?

• A. Cover crops have no effect on soil health.
• B. Soil health is unrelated to cover crops.
• C. Cover crops are beneficial for soil health.
• D. Cover crops harm soil health.

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is inferring from people’s actions. If most farms adopt cover crops specifically to improve soil health, that choice signals they believe cover crops help soil health.

Cover crops are used to protect and feed the soil: they add organic matter, help build soil structure, reduce erosion, and improve nutrient cycling. These benefits align with the goal of improving soil health, so the best conclusion is that cover crops are beneficial for soil health.

The other statements contradict the farmers’ stated aim. Claiming there’s no effect, that soil health is unrelated, or that cover crops harm soil health doesn’t fit with why farmers would adopt them to achieve better soil health. Remember, adoption suggests belief in a positive effect, though it isn’t a formal proof of causation.