Gas injury near utility lines is often suggested by which clue?

• A. Sudden Decline Near Gas Lines Within 100 Feet.
• B. Gradual Yellowing Over Months.
• C. Pests Feeding On Leaves.
• D. Water-Logged Soil.

Answer: (A)

Gas injury from buried utility lines shows up as a rapid, localized decline in plants near the source. When a line leaks, soil gases affect the root zone quickly, causing sudden dieback or yellowing in the area around the line—often within about 100 feet. This abrupt pattern is a key clue that points to gas-related damage rather than other problems.

By contrast, gradual yellowing over months suggests nutrient deficiencies or other chronic stresses; pests feeding on leaves create visible insect damage patterns rather than sudden decline tied to a line; and water-logged soil leads to symptoms related to poor drainage, not proximity to a gas source.