Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Ecological Restoration Technician Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is the primary goal of ecological restoration?
• Increase recreational use of land
• Restore native ecosystems and biodiversity
• Maximize timber production
• Create ornamental landscapes

Rationale: The primary goal of ecological restoration is to return

ecosystems to their native condition, emphasizing biodiversity and ecological function.

• Which type of seed is most appropriate for prairie restoration?
• Annual ornamental grass 1 / 4

• Native prairie grass and forb seeds
• Non-native grass seeds
• Turfgrass seeds

Rationale: Using native species ensures the restored prairie is ecologically

appropriate and supports local wildlife.

• Which invasive species is a common threat to Illinois wetlands?
• Big bluestem
• Purple loosestrife
• Black-eyed Susan
• Switchgrass

Rationale: Purple loosestrife aggressively displaces native wetland plants,

reducing biodiversity.

• What is the purpose of a soil seed bank in restoration ecology?
• To store fertilizers
• To preserve viable seeds in the soil for future regeneration
• To increase soil pH
• To attract pollinators

Rationale: Soil seed banks contain dormant seeds that can germinate

under favorable conditions, aiding ecosystem recovery.

• Which technique is commonly used to control invasive woody species?
• Mulching
• Cut-stump herbicide application 2 / 4

• Hand-pulling annuals
• Prescribed burning only

Rationale: Cut-stump herbicide application is effective for preventing

resprouting in invasive trees and shrubs.

• What is a key indicator of successful prairie restoration?
• High presence of mulch
• Native plant species diversity and cover
• Presence of exotic ornamentals
• Large amounts of standing water

Rationale: A restored prairie is measured by the diversity and abundance

of native species relative to invasive or non-native species.

• Which soil characteristic is most important for determining plant

species suitability?

• Color
• Texture and drainage
• Depth only
• Temperature only

Rationale: Soil texture and drainage influence water availability and root

growth, critical for plant establishment.

8. Invasive earthworms in Illinois forests primarily affect:

• Tree height
• Leaf litter and nutrient cycling 3 / 4

• Pollinator populations
• Soil pH only

Rationale: Non-native earthworms consume leaf litter, altering nutrient

availability and forest floor ecology.

• Which of the following is a benefit of prescribed fire in prairie

restoration?

• Reduces soil fertility
• Controls invasive species and stimulates native growth
• Kills all wildlife
• Increases erosion

Rationale: Prescribed fire mimics natural disturbance, helping maintain

native plant communities and reducing woody invasion.

• What is an important consideration when collecting seeds for

restoration?

• Collecting only one species
• Collecting from local ecotypes and multiple populations
• Collecting from non-native plants
• Harvesting immature seeds

Rationale: Local ecotypes are adapted to regional conditions, increasing

the success of restoration plantings.

• Which type of wetland is typically dominated by cattails and

sedges?

• / 4