When a lake collects too much silt, plant life on the lake banks can become overgrown, and it takes a lot of time and work to correct the problem. ?The bottom of the lake is first dredged' and the muck hauled away from places where it has become too shallow, Once that is completed, a basin is dug out and a rock dam can then be installed just below the water surface to catch the silt before it enters the lake. This makes it easier for workers to periodically dredge just the basin. "After that, the banks can be additionally stabilized with rocks encased in metal mesh and "coconut logs - bound logs made of coconut fiber - to prevent further erosion. The roots of water-loving plants such as rushes, sedges, blue flag irises and button bush will grow through the logs and into the banks, further stabilizing them. For a finishing touch, a silt peninsula that may have spawned trees and other plant life can be turned into a small island refuge harboring numerous birds and insects. The entire project can be a boon for wildlife by allowing environmentalists to examine the waterways feeding into the lake to reduce pollution and protect ecosystems. Answer all of the questions below. Be sure to number your answers. 1. What is the topic of the passage? (4 points) 2. What is the stated main idea of the passage? (Write the complete sentence) (8 points) 3. List the FOUR major supporting details that appear in the passage. (8 points) 4. According to the passage, how does silt cause a problem in a lake? (4 points) 5. Why do the banks need to be stabilized? (4 points)