Which of the following is a common method for reducing the risk of contaminating water sources?

Implementing protective zoning regulations is a fundamental method for safeguarding water sources from contamination. These regulations establish land-use guidelines around water bodies, ensuring that activities that could harm water quality, such as industrial development or agricultural practices that lead to runoff, are restricted or managed.

Protective zoning can include buffer zones that limit proximity to water bodies, the regulation of pollutants that may enter the water source, and the preservation of natural habitats that contribute to the filtration and cleansing of water. By controlling land use and preventing potentially harmful activities near water sources, these regulations play a critical role in maintaining water quality and ensuring safe drinking water for the community.

In contrast, the other options compromise water quality. Increased recreational use may lead to pollution from litter and waste. Reducing water conservation measures could lead to overuse and depletion of water resources, while encouraging agricultural runoff can introduce fertilizers and pesticides into water bodies, resulting in nutrient pollution and harm to aquatic life. Therefore, the protective zoning regulations provide a proactive approach to safeguard water quality effectively.