Which entity sets the interim 20% nutrient load reduction goal by 2025?

• A. Hypoxia Task Force
• B. Environmental Protection Agency
• C. Ohio Department of Agriculture
• D. Mississippi River Commission

Answer: (A)

The target is set by a collaborative group formed to address Gulf of Mexico hypoxia by reducing nutrient pollution from the Mississippi River Basin. This multi-state and federal partnership establishes the basin-wide action plan and sets interim milestones, such as a 20% reduction by 2025, to guide actions across states and agencies. While the EPA provides leadership and support, the specific interim goal comes from this Task Force because it coordinates across the entire basin. The other entities have different roles: the EPA handles federal policy and oversight, the Ohio Department of Agriculture focuses on state-level farming issues, and the Mississippi River Commission concentrates on navigation and flood control rather than nutrient reduction targets.