Which forestry practice decreases competition and improves the overall health and productivity of a forest? A. Thinning B. Clear-cutting C. Slash-and-burn D. Desertification

The correct answer is: **A. Thinning** **Explanation:** - **Thinning** is a sustainable forestry practice that involves selectively removing certain trees from a forest. This reduction in density decreases competition for essential resources such as light, water, and nutrients among the remaining trees. As a result, it promotes healthier growth, enhances biodiversity, and can increase the overall productivity of the forest. - **Clear-cutting** involves removing all or most of the trees in an area, which can lead to negative environmental impacts like habitat destruction, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity. - **Slash-and-burn** is an agricultural method where vegetation is cut and burned to clear land for farming. This practice often results in deforestation and can contribute to environmental degradation. - **Desertification** refers to the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically due to drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture. It is not a forestry practice but rather an environmental issue. **Therefore, thinning is the forestry practice that effectively decreases competition among trees and enhances the forest's overall health and productivity.** **Answer:** A. Thinning