(LC)

Which word includes a prefix that relates to the concept of something circular? (5 points)

	Accumulate
	Cyclone
	Divinity
	Synthesis

4.

(LC)

The words falsify, fallacy, and fallacious all share the same root fal.

The root most likely means (5 points)

	clean
	human
	soft
	untrue

5.

(MC)

How Much Do You Use? The Story of Water

NOVEMBER 25, 2014 AT 12:22 PM JON CAMPBELL, USGS

Across the nation, water is vital to every household and every community; to agriculture, energy production, and a productive economy; to wildlife, forests, and a healthy environment. America's water resources are generally abundant but they are not limitless. It is vital as well that we have a comprehensive understanding of how much water is being used across the country so we can make wise choices in managing our water resources.

Every five years the U.S. Geological Survey collects data from counties all over the Nation for the national water use report, a thorough document that provides water resource managers and private citizens with accurate information on how much water is being used in specific places for a wide variety of purposes.

A new low in water use Water use across the country reached its lowest recorded level in nearly 45 years. According to a new USGS report, about 355 billion gallons of water per day (Bgal/d) were withdrawn for use in the entire United States during 2010. This represents a 13 percent reduction of water use from 2005 when about 410 Bgal/d were withdrawn, and the lowest level since before 1970.

Reaching this 45-year low shows the positive trends in conservation that stem from improvements in water-use technologies and management. Even as the U.S. population continues to grow, people are learning to be more water conscious and do their part to help sustain the limited freshwater resources in the country.

Categories of water use Water withdrawn for thermoelectric power was the largest type of water use nationally, with the other leading uses being irrigation, public supply and self-supplied industrial water, respectively. Withdrawals declined in each of these categories. Collectively, all of these uses represented 94 percent of total withdrawals from 2005-2010.

Irrigation withdrawals in the United States continued to decline since 2005, and more croplands were reported as using higher-efficiency irrigation systems in 2010. Shifts toward more sprinkler and micro-irrigation systems nationally and declining withdrawals in the West have contributed to a drop in the national average application rate from 2.32 acre-feet per acre in 2005 to 2.07 acre-feet per acre in 2010.

For the first time, withdrawals for public water supply declined between 2005 and 2010, despite a 4 percent increase in the nation's total population. The number of people served by public-supply systems continued to increase and the public-supply per capita use declined to 89 gallons per day in 2010 from 100 gallons per day in 2005.

Regional water use California accounted for 11 percent of the total withdrawals for all categories and 10 percent of total freshwater withdrawals for all categories nationwide. Texas accounted for about 7 percent of total withdrawals for all categories, predominantly for thermoelectric power, irrigation and public supply. In August, USGS released the 2010 water-use estimates for California in advance of the national report. The estimates showed that in 2010, Californians withdrew an estimated total of 38 Bgal/day, compared with 46 Bgal/day in 2005. Surface water withdrawals in the state were down whereas groundwater withdrawals and freshwater withdrawals were up. Most freshwater withdrawals in California are for irrigation.

Florida had the largest saline withdrawals, accounting for 18 percent of the total in the country, mostly saline surface-water withdrawals for thermoelectric power. Oklahoma and Texas accounted for about 70 percent of the total saline groundwater withdrawals in the United States, mostly for mining.

Source: http://www.usgs.gov/blogs/features/usgs_top_story/think-short-creative-and-inviting/

Which sentence from the introductory section best summarizes its main idea? (5 points)

	Across the nation, water is vital to every household and every community
	America's water resources are generally abundant but they are not limitless
	It is vital as well that we have a comprehensive understanding of how much water is being used
	Every five years the U.S. Geological Survey collects data from counties all over the Nation for the national water use report

6.

(MC)

How Much Do You Use? The Story of Water

NOVEMBER 25, 2014 AT 12:22 PM JON CAMPBELL, USGS

Across the nation, water is vital to every household and every community; to agriculture, energy production, and a productive economy; to wildlife, forests, and a healthy environment. America's water resources are generally abundant but they are not limitless. It is vital as well that we have a comprehensive understanding of how much water is being used across the country so we can make wise choices in managing our water resources.

Every five years the U.S. Geological Survey collects data from counties all over the Nation for the national water use report, a thorough document that provides water resource managers and private citizens with accurate information on how much water is being used in specific places for a wide variety of purposes.

A new low in water use Water use across the country reached its lowest recorded level in nearly 45 years. According to a new USGS report, about 355 billion gallons of water per day (Bgal/d) were withdrawn for use in the entire United States during 2010. This represents a 13 percent reduction of water use from 2005 when about 410 Bgal/d were withdrawn, and the lowest level since before 1970.

Reaching this 45-year low shows the positive trends in conservation that stem from improvements in water-use technologies and management. Even as the U.S. population continues to grow, people are learning to be more water conscious and do their part to help sustain the limited freshwater resources in the country.

Categories of water use Water withdrawn for thermoelectric power was the largest type of water use nationally, with the other leading uses being irrigation, public supply and self-supplied industrial water, respectively. Withdrawals declined in each of these categories. Collectively, all of these uses represented 94 percent of total withdrawals from 2005-2010.

Irrigation withdrawals in the United States continued to decline since 2005, and more croplands were reported as using higher-efficiency irrigation systems in 2010. Shifts toward more sprinkler and micro-irrigation systems nationally and declining withdrawals in the West have contributed to a drop in the national average application rate from 2.32 acre-feet per acre in 2005 to 2.07 acre-feet per acre in 2010.

For the first time, withdrawals for public water supply declined between 2005 and 2010, despite a 4 percent increase in the nation's total population. The number of people served by public-supply systems continued to increase and the public-supply per capita use declined to 89 gallons per day in 2010 from 100 gallons per day in 2005.

Regional water use California accounted for 11 percent of the total withdrawals for all categories and 10 percent of total freshwater withdrawals for all categories nationwide. Texas accounted for about 7 percent of total withdrawals for all categories, predominantly for thermoelectric power, irrigation and public supply. In August, USGS released the 2010 water-use estimates for California in advance of the national report. The estimates showed that in 2010, Californians withdrew an estimated total of 38 Bgal/day, compared with 46 Bgal/day in 2005. Surface water withdrawals in the state were down whereas groundwater withdrawals and freshwater withdrawals were up. Most freshwater withdrawals in California are for irrigation.

Florida had the largest saline withdrawals, accounting for 18 percent of the total in the country, mostly saline surface-water withdrawals for thermoelectric power. Oklahoma and Texas accounted for about 70 percent of the total saline groundwater withdrawals in the United States, mostly for mining.

Source: http://www.usgs.gov/blogs/features/usgs_top_story/think-short-creative-and-inviting/

Which of the following correctly summarizes this text? (5 points)

	California and other regions have reduced water use significantly.
	Conservation efforts are finally starting to pay off.
	The U.S. Geological Survey collects data about water use.
	Water use in the last five years has decreased in most areas.

7.

(MC)

How Much Do You Use? The Story of Water

NOVEMBER 25, 2014 AT 12:22 PM JON CAMPBELL, USGS

Across the nation, water is vital to every household and every community; to agriculture, energy production, and a productive economy; to wildlife, forests, and a healthy environment. America's water resources are generally abundant but they are not limitless. It is vital as well that we have a comprehensive understanding of how much water is being used across the country so we can make wise choices in managing our water resources.

Every five years the U.S. Geological Survey collects data from counties all over the Nation for the national water use report, a thorough document that provides water resource managers and private citizens with accurate information on how much water is being used in specific places for a wide variety of purposes.

A new low in water use Water use across the country reached its lowest recorded level in nearly 45 years. According to a new USGS report, about 355 billion gallons of water per day (Bgal/d) were withdrawn for use in the entire United States during 2010. This represents a 13 percent reduction of water use from 2005 when about 410 Bgal/d were withdrawn, and the lowest level since before 1970.

Reaching this 45-year low shows the positive trends in conservation that stem from improvements in water-use technologies and management. Even as the U.S. population continues to grow, people are learning to be more water conscious and do their part to help sustain the limited freshwater resources in the country.

Categories of water use Water withdrawn for thermoelectric power was the largest type of water use nationally, with the other leading uses being irrigation, public supply and self-supplied industrial water, respectively. Withdrawals declined in each of these categories. Collectively, all of these uses represented 94 percent of total withdrawals from 2005-2010.

Irrigation withdrawals in the United States continued to decline since 2005, and more croplands were reported as using higher-efficiency irrigation systems in 2010. Shifts toward more sprinkler and micro-irrigation systems nationally and declining withdrawals in the West have contributed to a drop in the national average application rate from 2.32 acre-feet per acre in 2005 to 2.07 acre-feet per acre in 2010.

For the first time, withdrawals for public water supply declined between 2005 and 2010, despite a 4 percent increase in the nation's total population. The number of people served by public-supply systems continued to increase and the public-supply per capita use declined to 89 gallons per day in 2010 from 100 gallons per day in 2005.

Regional water use California accounted for 11 percent of the total withdrawals for all categories and 10 percent of total freshwater withdrawals for all categories nationwide. Texas accounted for about 7 percent of total withdrawals for all categories, predominantly for thermoelectric power, irrigation and public supply. In August, USGS released the 2010 water-use estimates for California in advance of the national report. The estimates showed that in 2010, Californians withdrew an estimated total of 38 Bgal/day, compared with 46 Bgal/day in 2005. Surface water withdrawals in the state were down whereas groundwater withdrawals and freshwater withdrawals were up. Most freshwater withdrawals in California are for irrigation.

Florida had the largest saline withdrawals, accounting for 18 percent of the total in the country, mostly saline surface-water withdrawals for thermoelectric power. Oklahoma and Texas accounted for about 70 percent of the total saline groundwater withdrawals in the United States, mostly for mining.

Source: http://www.usgs.gov/blogs/features/usgs_top_story/think-short-creative-and-inviting/

Read the following line from the text:

They are also more likely to cause the extinction of at-risk species, since they can thrive on alternate prey as they drive the vulnerable prey to extinction.

What does the word thrive mean in this context? (5 points)

	Contain
	Prosper
	Regenerate
	Struggle

8.

(MC)

How Much Do You Use? The Story of Water

NOVEMBER 25, 2014 AT 12:22 PM JON CAMPBELL, USGS

Across the nation, water is vital to every household and every community; to agriculture, energy production, and a productive economy; to wildlife, forests, and a healthy environment. America's water resources are generally abundant but they are not limitless. It is vital as well that we have a comprehensive understanding of how much water is being used across the country so we can make wise choices in managing our water resources.

Every five years the U.S. Geological Survey collects data from counties all over the Nation for the national water use report, a thorough document that provides water resource managers and private citizens with accurate information on how much water is being used in specific places for a wide variety of purposes.

A new low in water use Water use across the country reached its lowest recorded level in nearly 45 years.According to a new USGS report, about 355 billion gallons of water per day (Bgal/d) were withdrawn for use in the entire United States during 2010. This represents a 13 percent reduction of water use from 2005 when about 410 Bgal/d were withdrawn, and the lowest level since before 1970.

Reaching this 45-year low shows the positive trends in conservation that stem from improvements in water-use technologies and management. Even as the U.S. population continues to grow, people are learning to be more water conscious and do their part to help sustain the limited freshwater resources in the country.

Categories of water use Water withdrawn for thermoelectric power was the largest type of water use nationally, with the other leading uses being irrigation, public supply and self-supplied industrial water, respectively. Withdrawals declined in each of these categories. Collectively, all of these uses represented 94 percent of total withdrawals from 2005-2010.

Irrigation withdrawals in the United States continued to decline since 2005, and more croplands were reported as using higher-efficiency irrigation systems in 2010. Shifts toward more sprinkler and micro-irrigation systems nationally and declining withdrawals in the West have contributed to a drop in the national average application rate from 2.32 acre-feet per acre in 2005 to 2.07 acre-feet per acre in 2010.

For the first time, withdrawals for public water supply declined between 2005 and 2010, despite a 4 percent increase in the nation's total population. The number of people served by public-supply systems continued to increase and the public-supply per capita use declined to 89 gallons per day in 2010 from 100 gallons per day in 2005.

Regional water use California accounted for 11 percent of the total withdrawals for all categories and 10 percent of total freshwater withdrawals for all categories nationwide. Texas accounted for about 7 percent of total withdrawals for all categories, predominantly for thermoelectric power, irrigation and public supply. In August, USGS released the 2010 water-use estimates for California in advance of the national report. The estimates showed that in 2010, Californians withdrew an estimated total of 38 Bgal/day, compared with 46 Bgal/day in 2005. Surface water withdrawals in the state were down whereas groundwater withdrawals and freshwater withdrawals were up. Most freshwater withdrawals in California are for irrigation.

Florida had the largest saline withdrawals, accounting for 18 percent of the total in the country, mostly saline surface-water withdrawals for thermoelectric power. Oklahoma and Texas accounted for about 70 percent of the total saline groundwater withdrawals in the United States, mostly for mining.

Source: http://www.usgs.gov/blogs/features/usgs_top_story/think-short-creative-and-inviting/

Read the following line from the text:

Water withdrawn for thermoelectric power was the largest type of water use nationally, with the other leading uses being irrigation, public supply and self-supplied industrial water, respectively

Which of the following correctly explains industrial? (5 points)

	Created by humans for humans
	Engaged in an artistic process
	Moving from one state to another
	Related to a process of making products

9.

(HC)

How Much Do You Use? The Story of Water

NOVEMBER 25, 2014 AT 12:22 PM JON CAMPBELL, USGS

Across the nation, water is vital to every household and every community; to agriculture, energy production, and a productive economy; to wildlife, forests, and a healthy environment. America's water resources are generally abundant but they are not limitless. It is vital as well that we have a comprehensive understanding of how much water is being used across the country so we can make wise choices in managing our water resources.

Every five years the U.S. Geological Survey collects data from counties all over the Nation for the national water use report, a thorough document that provides water resource managers and private citizens with accurate information on how much water is being used in specific places for a wide variety of purposes.

A new low in water use Water use across the country reached its lowest recorded level in nearly 45 years. According to a new USGS report, about 355 billion gallons of water per day (Bgal/d) were withdrawn for use in the entire United States during 2010. This represents a 13 percent reduction of water use from 2005 when about 410 Bgal/d were withdrawn, and the lowest level since before 1970.

Reaching this 45-year low shows the positive trends in conservation that stem from improvements in water-use technologies and management. Even as the U.S. population continues to grow, people are learning to be more water conscious and do their part to help sustain the limited freshwater resources in the country.

Categories of water use Water withdrawn for thermoelectric power was the largest type of water use nationally, with the other leading uses being irrigation, public supply and self-supplied industrial water, respectively. Withdrawals declined in each of these categories. Collectively, all of these uses represented 94 percent of total withdrawals from 2005-2010.

Irrigation withdrawals in the United States continued to decline since 2005, and more croplands were reported as using higher-efficiency irrigation systems in 2010. Shifts toward more sprinkler and micro-irrigation systems nationally and declining withdrawals in the West have contributed to a drop in the national average application rate from 2.32 acre-feet per acre in 2005 to 2.07 acre-feet per acre in 2010.

For the first time, withdrawals for public water supply declined between 2005 and 2010, despite a 4 percent increase in the nation's total population. The number of people served by public-supply systems continued to increase and the public-supply per capita use declined to 89 gallons per day in 2010 from 100 gallons per day in 2005.

Regional water use California accounted for 11 percent of the total withdrawals for all categories and 10 percent of total freshwater withdrawals for all categories nationwide. Texas accounted for about 7 percent of total withdrawals for all categories, predominantly for thermoelectric power, irrigation and public supply. In August, USGS released the 2010 water-use estimates for California in advance of the national report. The estimates showed that in 2010, Californians withdrew an estimated total of 38 Bgal/day, compared with 46 Bgal/day in 2005. Surface water withdrawals in the state were down whereas groundwater withdrawals and freshwater withdrawals were up. Most freshwater withdrawals in California are for irrigation.

Florida had the largest saline withdrawals, accounting for 18 percent of the total in the country, mostly saline surface-water withdrawals for thermoelectric power. Oklahoma and Texas accounted for about 70 percent of the total saline groundwater withdrawals in the United States, mostly for mining.

Source: http://www.usgs.gov/blogs/features/usgs_top_story/think-short-creative-and-inviting/

Which of the following research questions would this text answer? (5 points)

	Can the U.S. save enough water through conservation to make a difference?
	Could conservation save us from rising sea levels and salt water infiltration?
	What is the effect of drought on water use in California and Florida?
	Which regions have historically used the least amount of water?

10.

(MC)

How Much Do You Use? The Story of Water

NOVEMBER 25, 2014 AT 12:22 PM JON CAMPBELL, USGS

Across the nation, water is vital to every household and every community; to agriculture, energy production, and a productive economy; to wildlife, forests, and a healthy environment. America's water resources are generally abundant but they are not limitless. It is vital as well that we have a comprehensive understanding of how much water is being used across the country so we can make wise choices in managing our water resources.

Every five years the U.S. Geological Survey collects data from counties all over the Nation for the national water use report, a thorough document that provides water resource managers and private citizens with accurate information on how much water is being used in specific places for a wide variety of purposes.

A new low in water use Water use across the country reached its lowest recorded level in nearly 45 years. According to a new USGS report, about 355 billion gallons of water per day (Bgal/d) were withdrawn for use in the entire United States during 2010. This represents a 13 percent reduction of water use from 2005 when about 410 Bgal/d were withdrawn, and the lowest level since before 1970.

Reaching this 45-year low shows the positive trends in conservation that stem from improvements in water-use technologies and management. Even as the U.S. population continues to grow, people are learning to be more water conscious and do their part to help sustain the limited freshwater resources in the country.

Categories of water use Water withdrawn for thermoelectric power was the largest type of water use nationally, with the other leading uses being irrigation, public supply and self-supplied industrial water, respectively. Withdrawals declined in each of these categories. Collectively, all of these uses represented 94 percent of total withdrawals from 2005-2010.

Irrigation withdrawals in the United States continued to decline since 2005, and more croplands were reported as using higher-efficiency irrigation systems in 2010. Shifts toward more sprinkler and micro-irrigation systems nationally and declining withdrawals in the West have contributed to a drop in the national average application rate from 2.32 acre-feet per acre in 2005 to 2.07 acre-feet per acre in 2010.

For the first time, withdrawals for public water supply declined between 2005 and 2010, despite a 4 percent increase in the nation's total population. The number of people served by public-supply systems continued to increase and the public-supply per capita use declined to 89 gallons per day in 2010 from 100 gallons per day in 2005.

Regional water use California accounted for 11 percent of the total withdrawals for all categories and 10 percent of total freshwater withdrawals for all categories nationwide. Texas accounted for about 7 percent of total withdrawals for all categories, predominantly for thermoelectric power, irrigation and public supply. In August, USGS released the 2010 water-use estimates for California in advance of the national report. The estimates showed that in 2010, Californians withdrew an estimated total of 38 Bgal/day, compared with 46 Bgal/day in 2005. Surface water withdrawals in the state were down whereas groundwater withdrawals and freshwater withdrawals were up. Most freshwater withdrawals in California are for irrigation.

Florida had the largest saline withdrawals, accounting for 18 percent of the total in the country, mostly saline surface-water withdrawals for thermoelectric power. Oklahoma and Texas accounted for about 70 percent of the total saline groundwater withdrawals in the United States, mostly for mining.

Source: http://www.usgs.gov/blogs/features/usgs_top_story/think-short-creative-and-inviting/

Based on this article, information about water use is important for consumers to have so that they can (5 points)

	continue collecting usage data wisely
	find alternative methods for farming withdrawals
	make decisions about future management issues
	practice using conservation techniques and methods

11.

(HC)

Giant Constrictor Snakes in Florida: A Sizeable Research Challenge United States Geological Survey

Since the mid-1990s, several species of non-native, giant constrictor snakes, such as Burmese pythons and boa constrictors, have surfaced in localities throughout southern Florida. Several are known or suspected to be breeding and appear to be spreading northward. Increasingly, media and other reports of sightings or encounters with these animals have emphasized the dangers they could impose on native species, ecosystems, pets, and people. The USGS Fort Collins Science Center (FORT), government resource management agencies, the University of Florida, Davidson College (NC), and The Nature Conservancy have been collaborating on research and intervention methods to cope with an urgent need to understand and control these large, widespread predators.

At the request of the National Park Service (NPS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), FORT scientists Robert Reed and Gordon Rodda are investigating the ecology and control of giant constrictors in Florida. These snakes constitute an exceptional threat to the integrity of native ecosystems in Florida and similar environments in which they could thrive.

The best-documented case of an invasive constrictor snake in Florida is that of the Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus). A population of Burmese pythons expanding from Everglades National Park is conservatively estimated to number in the thousands. Boa constrictors (Boa constrictor) are known to be established in south Florida, and recent evidence suggests that a reproducing population of northern African pythons (Python sebae) exists there as well. Free-ranging individuals of several additional species of non-native giant constrictors (which include anacondas, pythons, and boas) are regularly discovered in various parts of the United States, including a 95-pound boa constrictor recently captured on No Name Key in the Florida Keys after being on the loose for several years, the shed skin from a large Burmese python in extreme southern California, and a yellow anaconda (Eunectes notaeus) from Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. Other feral species of giant constrictor snakes also have been sighted or caught in the wild in Florida.

Giant constrictors have the potential to appreciably alter the natural communities of life in south Florida and beyond, possibly including large portions of the continental United States and most insular states and territories.

The Problem with Large Predator Snakes

Generalist predators, such as all of the giant snakes, are considered to be a greater threat as invaders: no matter where they find themselves, they are likely to locate suitable prey. They are also more likely to cause the extinction of at-risk species, since they can thrive on alternate prey as they drive the vulnerable prey to extinction.

Giant constrictors share a number of additional traits that either increase the severity of likely ecological impacts or confound control and eradication efforts. Among other things, these snake species

• grow rapidly to a large size (some individuals of these species surpass 20 ft in length and weigh more than 200 lbs);
• are habitat generalists (they can live in many kinds of habitats, and some species have behaviors that allow them to escape freezing temperatures);
• are arboreal (tree-dwelling) when young (puts birds and arboreal mammals at risk and provides another avenue for quick dispersal);
• are tolerant of urbanization (can live in urban/suburban areas);
• are well-concealed "sit-and-wait" predators (difficult to detect, difficult to trap due to infrequent movements between hiding places);
• mature rapidly and produce many offspring;
• achieve high population densities (leading to greater impact on native wildlife); and
• serve as potential hosts for parasites and diseases of economic and human health significance.

Source: https://www.fort.usgs.gov/flconstrictors

Based on information in this article, the outcome of not being able to control constrictor populations will most likely be (5 points)

	extinction of several vulnerable species
	containment to one specific region
	increased populations of all species
	initial increases but then steep declines in birds

12.

(MC)

Giant Constrictor Snakes in Florida: A Sizeable Research Challenge United States Geological Survey

Since the mid-1990s, several species of non-native, giant constrictor snakes, such as Burmese pythons and boa constrictors, have surfaced in localities throughout southern Florida. Several are known or suspected to be breeding and appear to be spreading northward. Increasingly, media and other reports of sightings or encounters with these animals have emphasized the dangers they could impose on native species, ecosystems, pets, and people. The USGS Fort Collins Science Center (FORT), government resource management agencies, the University of Florida, Davidson College (NC), and The Nature Conservancy have been collaborating on research and intervention methods to cope with an urgent need to understand and control these large, widespread predators.

At the request of the National Park Service (NPS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), FORT scientists Robert Reed and Gordon Rodda are investigating the ecology and control of giant constrictors in Florida. These snakes constitute an exceptional threat to the integrity of native ecosystems in Florida and similar environments in which they could thrive.

The best-documented case of an invasive constrictor snake in Florida is that of the Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus). A population of Burmese pythons expanding from Everglades National Park is conservatively estimated to number in the thousands. Boa constrictors (Boa constrictor) are known to be established in south Florida, and recent evidence suggests that a reproducing population of northern African pythons (Python sebae) exists there as well. Free-ranging individuals of several additional species of non-native giant constrictors (which include anacondas, pythons, and boas) are regularly discovered in various parts of the United States, including a 95-pound boa constrictor recently captured on No Name Key in the Florida Keys after being on the loose for several years, the shed skin from a large Burmese python in extreme southern California, and a yellow anaconda (Eunectes notaeus) from Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. Other feral species of giant constrictor snakes also have been sighted or caught in the wild in Florida.

Giant constrictors have the potential to appreciably alter the natural communities of life in south Florida and beyond, possibly including large portions of the continental United States and most insular states and territories.

The Problem with Large Predator Snakes

Generalist predators, such as all of the giant snakes, are considered to be a greater threat as invaders: no matter where they find themselves, they are likely to locate suitable prey. They are also more likely to cause the extinction of at-risk species, since they can thrive on alternate prey as they drive the vulnerable prey to extinction.

Giant constrictors share a number of additional traits that either increase the severity of likely ecological impacts or confound control and eradication efforts. Among other things, these snake species

• grow rapidly to a large size (some individuals of these species surpass 20 ft in length and weigh more than 200 lbs);
• are habitat generalists (they can live in many kinds of habitats, and some species have behaviors that allow them to escape freezing temperatures);
• are arboreal (tree-dwelling) when young (puts birds and arboreal mammals at risk and provides another avenue for quick dispersal);
• are tolerant of urbanization (can live in urban/suburban areas);
• are well-concealed "sit-and-wait" predators (difficult to detect, difficult to trap due to infrequent movements between hiding places);
• mature rapidly and produce many offspring;
• achieve high population densities (leading to greater impact on native wildlife); and
• serve as potential hosts for parasites and diseases of economic and human health significance.

Source: https://www.fort.usgs.gov/flconstrictors

Read the following line from the text:

Increasingly, media and other reports of sightings or encounters with these animals have emphasized the dangers they could impose on native species, ecosystems, pets, and people.

What does the word impose mean in this context? (5 points)

	Assess
	Inflict
	Decrease
	Pardon

13.

(MC)

Giant Constrictor Snakes in Florida: A Sizeable Research Challenge United States Geological Survey

Since the mid-1990s, several species of non-native, giant constrictor snakes, such as Burmese pythons and boa constrictors, have surfaced in localities throughout southern Florida. Several are known or suspected to be breeding and appear to be spreading northward. Increasingly, media and other reports of sightings or encounters with these animals have emphasized the dangers they could impose on native species, ecosystems, pets, and people. The USGS Fort Collins Science Center (FORT), government resource management agencies, the University of Florida, Davidson College (NC), and The Nature Conservancy have been collaborating on research and intervention methods to cope with an urgent need to understand and control these large, widespread predators.

At the request of the National Park Service (NPS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), FORT scientists Robert Reed and Gordon Rodda are investigating the ecology and control of giant constrictors in Florida. These snakes constitute an exceptional threat to the integrity of native ecosystems in Florida and similar environments in which they could thrive.

The best-documented case of an invasive constrictor snake in Florida is that of the Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus). A population of Burmese pythons expanding from Everglades National Park is conservatively estimated to number in the thousands. Boa constrictors (Boa constrictor) are known to be established in south Florida, and recent evidence suggests that a reproducing population of northern African pythons (Python sebae) exists there as well. Free-ranging individuals of several additional species of non-native giant constrictors (which include anacondas, pythons, and boas) are regularly discovered in various parts of the United States, including a 95-pound boa constrictor recently captured on No Name Key in the Florida Keys after being on the loose for several years, the shed skin from a large Burmese python in extreme southern California, and a yellow anaconda (Eunectes notaeus) from Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. Other feral species of giant constrictor snakes also have been sighted or caught in the wild in Florida.

Giant constrictors have the potential to appreciably alter the natural communities of life in south Florida and beyond, possibly including large portions of the continental United States and most insular states and territories.

The Problem with Large Predator Snakes

Generalist predators, such as all of the giant snakes, are considered to be a greater threat as invaders: no matter where they find themselves, they are likely to locate suitable prey. They are also more likely to cause the extinction of at-risk species, since they can thrive on alternate prey as they drive the vulnerable prey to extinction.

Giant constrictors share a number of additional traits that either increase the severity of likely ecological impacts or confound control and eradication efforts. Among other things, these snake species

• grow rapidly to a large size (some individuals of these species surpass 20 ft in length and weigh more than 200 lbs);
• are habitat generalists (they can live in many kinds of habitats, and some species have behaviors that allow them to escape freezing temperatures);
• are arboreal (tree-dwelling) when young (puts birds and arboreal mammals at risk and provides another avenue for quick dispersal);
• are tolerant of urbanization (can live in urban/suburban areas);
• are well-concealed "sit-and-wait" predators (difficult to detect, difficult to trap due to infrequent movements between hiding places);
• mature rapidly and produce many offspring;
• achieve high population densities (leading to greater impact on native wildlife); and
• serve as potential hosts for parasites and diseases of economic and human health significance.

Source: https://www.fort.usgs.gov/flconstrictors

The main purpose of the list at the end of the article is to (5 points)

	create a list of goals to accomplish
	describe all scientists know about constrictors
	explain why constrictors are hard to control
	suggest more citizen involvement

14.

(MC)

Giant Constrictor Snakes in Florida: A Sizeable Research Challenge United States Geological Survey

Since the mid-1990s, several species of non-native, giant constrictor snakes, such as Burmese pythons and boa constrictors, have surfaced in localities throughout southern Florida. Several are known or suspected to be breeding and appear to be spreading northward. Increasingly, media and other reports of sightings or encounters with these animals have emphasized the dangers they could impose on native species, ecosystems, pets, and people. The USGS Fort Collins Science Center (FORT), government resource management agencies, the University of Florida, Davidson College (NC), and The Nature Conservancy have been collaborating on research and intervention methods to cope with an urgent need to understand and control these large, widespread predators.

At the request of the National Park Service (NPS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), FORT scientists Robert Reed and Gordon Rodda are investigating the ecology and control of giant constrictors in Florida. These snakes constitute an exceptional threat to the integrity of native ecosystems in Florida and similar environments in which they could thrive.

The best-documented case of an invasive constrictor snake in Florida is that of the Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus). A population of Burmese pythons expanding from Everglades National Park is conservatively estimated to number in the thousands. Boa constrictors (Boa constrictor) are known to be established in south Florida, and recent evidence suggests that a reproducing population of northern African pythons (Python sebae) exists there as well. Free-ranging individuals of several additional species of non-native giant constrictors (which include anacondas, pythons, and boas) are regularly discovered in various parts of the United States, including a 95-pound boa constrictor recently captured on No Name Key in the Florida Keys after being on the loose for several years, the shed skin from a large Burmese python in extreme southern California, and a yellow anaconda (Eunectes notaeus) from Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. Other feral species of giant constrictor snakes also have been sighted or caught in the wild in Florida.

Giant constrictors have the potential to appreciably alter the natural communities of life in south Florida and beyond, possibly including large portions of the continental United States and most insular states and territories.

The Problem with Large Predator Snakes

Generalist predators, such as all of the giant snakes, are considered to be a greater threat as invaders: no matter where they find themselves, they are likely to locate suitable prey. They are also more likely to cause the extinction of at-risk species, since they can thrive on alternate prey as they drive the vulnerable prey to extinction.

Giant constrictors share a number of additional traits that either increase the severity of likely ecological impacts or confound control and eradication efforts. Among other things, these snake species

• grow rapidly to a large size (some individuals of these species surpass 20 ft in length and weigh more than 200 lbs);
• are habitat generalists (they can live in many kinds of habitats, and some species have behaviors that allow them to escape freezing temperatures);
• are arboreal (tree-dwelling) when young (puts birds and arboreal mammals at risk and provides another avenue for quick dispersal);
• are tolerant of urbanization (can live in urban/suburban areas);
• are well-concealed "sit-and-wait" predators (difficult to detect, difficult to trap due to infrequent movements between hiding places);
• mature rapidly and produce many offspring;
• achieve high population densities (leading to greater impact on native wildlife); and
• serve as potential hosts for parasites and diseases of economic and human health significance.

Source: https://www.fort.usgs.gov/flconstrictors

Which of the following best explains why it is important to control constrictors, according to this article? (5 points)

	Environmental factors make it easier for constrictors to spread than before.
	Resources to combat growing numbers of constrictors have been severely limited recently.
	They are no longer legally allowed as pets because of recent negative human interactions.
	They have a certain traits that make them very successful at adapting and taking over an ecosystem.

15.

(HC)

Giant Constrictor Snakes in Florida: A Sizeable Research Challenge United States Geological Survey

Since the mid-1990s, several species of non-native, giant constrictor snakes, such as Burmese pythons and boa constrictors, have surfaced in localities throughout southern Florida. Several are known or suspected to be breeding and appear to be spreading northward. Increasingly, media and other reports of sightings or encounters with these animals have emphasized the dangers they could impose on native species, ecosystems, pets, and people. The USGS Fort Collins Science Center (FORT), government resource management agencies, the University of Florida, Davidson College (NC), and The Nature Conservancy have been collaborating on research and intervention methods to cope with an urgent need to understand and control these large, widespread predators.

At the request of the National Park Service (NPS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), FORT scientists Robert Reed and Gordon Rodda are investigating the ecology and control of giant constrictors in Florida. These snakes constitute an exceptional threat to the integrity of native ecosystems in Florida and similar environments in which they could thrive.

The best-documented case of an invasive constrictor snake in Florida is that of the Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus). A population of Burmese pythons expanding from Everglades National Park is conservatively estimated to number in the thousands. Boa constrictors (Boa constrictor) are known to be established in south Florida, and recent evidence suggests that a reproducing population of northern African pythons (Python sebae) exists there as well. Free-ranging individuals of several additional species of non-native giant constrictors (which include anacondas, pythons, and boas) are regularly discovered in various parts of the United States, including a 95-pound boa constrictor recently captured on No Name Key in the Florida Keys after being on the loose for several years, the shed skin from a large Burmese python in extreme southern California, and a yellow anaconda (Eunectes notaeus) from Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. Other feral species of giant constrictor snakes also have been sighted or caught in the wild in Florida.

Giant constrictors have the potential to appreciably alter the natural communities of life in south Florida and beyond, possibly including large portions of the continental United States and most insular states and territories.

The Problem with Large Predator Snakes

Generalist predators, such as all of the giant snakes, are considered to be a greater threat as invaders: no matter where they find themselves, they are likely to locate suitable prey. They are also more likely to cause the extinction of at-risk species, since they can thrive on alternate prey as they drive the vulnerable prey to extinction.

Giant constrictors share a number of additional traits that either increase the severity of likely ecological impacts or confound control and eradication efforts. Among other things, these snake species

• grow rapidly to a large size (some individuals of these species surpass 20 ft in length and weigh more than 200 lbs);
• are habitat generalists (they can live in many kinds of habitats, and some species have behaviors that allow them to escape freezing temperatures);
• are arboreal (tree-dwelling) when young (puts birds and arboreal mammals at risk and provides another avenue for quick dispersal);
• are tolerant of urbanization (can live in urban/suburban areas);
• are well-concealed "sit-and-wait" predators (difficult to detect, difficult to trap due to infrequent movements between hiding places);
• mature rapidly and produce many offspring;
• achieve high population densities (leading to greater impact on native wildlife); and
• serve as potential hosts for parasites and diseases of economic and human health significance.

Source: https://www.fort.usgs.gov/flconstrictors

Which of the following correctly summarizes the main point of this article? (5 points)

	Because constrictors are highly effective predators, they will be hard to control.
	If we had controlled constrictors earlier, they would be eliminated by now.
	Scientists have just begun to study this beautiful and deadly reptile.
	The research indicates constrictors will not travel too far northward.