Question Statement:
Consider the argument: 'Agronomists argue that zero-tillage preserves soil moisture. **However, heavy surface residue in zero-till fields often lowers spring soil temperatures, significantly delaying germination.** For this reason, strip-tillage, which clears residue only over the seed row, is often preferable.' The boldface portion:
Options:
- (A) Presents a drawback of zero-tillage that motivates the recommendation of strip-tillage.
- (B) States the final conclusion of the argument.
- (C) Refutes the claim that strip-tillage is effective.
- (D) Provides empirical evidence that zero-tillage increases crop yield.