Question 8

Development permanently destroys open land

Conservationists argue that the phrase 'the last crop is always asphalt' highlights the irreversible nature of urban development, where land that could support agriculture is instead covered by roads and buildings.

A) That development permanently destroys open land

This option directly captures the essence of the conservationists' message. It reflects their concern that as urban areas expand, valuable agricultural land is paved over, leading to a loss of natural resources and biodiversity.

B) That asphalt is an important agricultural product

This option is incorrect as it misinterprets the meaning of the phrase. Asphalt is not an agricultural product; rather, it is a material used in construction and road building, which contradicts the idea of preserving farmland.

C) That conservation increases crop yields

While conservation can have positive effects on agriculture, this option does not address the specific concern raised by the phrase. The focus is on the loss of land due to development rather than the benefits of conservation.

D) That communities should build more farms before roads

This option suggests a potential solution but does not accurately reflect the warning conveyed by conservationists. The phrase emphasizes the negative consequences of development rather than advocating for a specific order of land use.

Conclusion

The correct answer, A, effectively encapsulates the critical warning that urban development results in the permanent loss of open land that could be used for agriculture. Other options fail to grasp this central theme, either misrepresenting it or diverting the focus away from the essential issue of land preservation.