Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- deficiency /dih-FISH-uhn-see/
- discharge /DIS-chahrj/
- oversight /OH-ver-sahyt/
- corrective /kuh-REK-tiv/
- adoption /uh-DOP-shuhn/
[noun] – a lack or shortage of something that is needed
The diet had a deficiency of important vitamins.
[noun] – the act of releasing or sending out something
The discharge from the factory polluted the river.
[noun] – refers to the process of monitoring and supervising to ensure that activities or operations are conducted properly and in compliance with regulations
The new company policy introduced a system of oversight to ensure that all safety procedures were strictly followed on the factory floor.
[adjective] – intended to correct or fix something
The company implemented corrective measures to improve quality.
[noun] – the act of accepting or beginning to use something new
The adoption of new technology improved the company’s efficiency.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified major deficiencies in Vermont’s management of phosphorus discharges from farms, which have contributed to serious water quality issues in Lake Champlain and other nearby water bodies. In a recent report, the EPA stated that Vermont’s current agricultural oversight program does not meet federal Clean Water Act standards and requires significant improvements. Phosphorus runoff from large concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) and smaller farms has been a primary cause of harmful algae blooms, which are damaging the lake’s ecosystem. The EPA recommended that Vermont’s Natural Resources Agency take over full control of CAFO management, including the issuance of permits, regular inspections, and the monitoring of nutrient levels.
The EPA emphasized the need for Vermont to enhance its oversight by establishing stricter regulatory practices for agricultural operations. Local officials acknowledged the necessity of administrative reforms but highlighted the substantial efforts that farmers have made in mitigating pollution. Nevertheless, previous petitions for corrective action have failed to bring about sufficient change in the state’s management of phosphorus discharges. Environmental groups praised the EPA’s recent intervention as a pivotal move, expressing hope that more stringent oversight would lead to meaningful progress in addressing long-standing water quality challenges. They anticipate that Vermont’s adoption of the recommended changes will play a crucial role in restoring the health of Lake Champlain’s ecosystem and improving water quality across the state.
The EPA emphasized the need for Vermont to enhance its oversight by establishing stricter regulatory practices for agricultural operations. Local officials acknowledged the necessity of administrative reforms but highlighted the substantial efforts that farmers have made in mitigating pollution. Nevertheless, previous petitions for corrective action have failed to bring about sufficient change in the state’s management of phosphorus discharges. Environmental groups praised the EPA’s recent intervention as a pivotal move, expressing hope that more stringent oversight would lead to meaningful progress in addressing long-standing water quality challenges. They anticipate that Vermont’s adoption of the recommended changes will play a crucial role in restoring the health of Lake Champlain’s ecosystem and improving water quality across the state.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever noticed pollution in a body of water near your home? If so, how did it affect the environment around it? If not, what do you think could be done to prevent water pollution in your area?
- Have you ever been involved in a project or activity aimed at protecting the environment? If so, what were the main challenges you faced? If not, what kind of environmental project would you be interested in participating in?
- Do you agree that stricter regulations are necessary for managing pollution from farms?
- What are some potential long-term effects of phosphorus runoff on ecosystems, and how can they be mitigated?
- What are the possible consequences if the recommended changes for managing phosphorus discharges are not adopted?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- major
- permit
- bloom
- crucial
- restore