What is a key reason for keeping livestock away from shorelines?

Keeping livestock away from shorelines is crucial for several reasons, primarily to prevent sedimentation, nutrient enrichment, and soil erosion. When livestock have direct access to water bodies, their movement can significantly disturb soil and contribute to erosion along the banks. This erosion allows sediment to enter the water, which can cloud the water and negatively impact aquatic habitats.

Additionally, livestock may contribute excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, into the water through their waste. These nutrients can lead to issues like algal blooms, which deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic life. By maintaining a buffer zone free from livestock, the integrity of the shoreline is preserved, leading to improved water quality and healthier ecosystems.

While improving water clarity, promoting fish spawning, and reducing the need for water treatment are all related to water quality and ecosystem health, they are more of indirect benefits resulting from the primary action of preventing sedimentation, nutrient enrichment, and soil erosion by keeping livestock away from the shores.