What is one consequence of inadequate nutrient management?

Inadequate nutrient management can lead to increased groundwater pollution as nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, may leach into water sources. When livestock waste or fertilizers are over-applied or improperly managed, these nutrients can runoff into surrounding areas and ultimately make their way into the groundwater. This contamination poses risks to human health and aquatic ecosystems, leading to issues such as algal blooms and depletion of oxygen levels in water bodies. Effective nutrient management practices aim to minimize these risks by ensuring that nutrients are applied in the appropriate amounts and at the right times to match crop needs, thereby protecting water quality.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of inadequate nutrient management. Better soil structure and enhanced nutrient availability would be outcomes of effective nutrient management rather than a result of inadequate practices. Similarly, improved crop rotation practices are also linked to effective nutrient management rather than being a consequence of insufficient nutrient management.