What are considered sensitive receptors in environmental monitoring?

Sensitive receptors in environmental monitoring refer to locations or groups that are vulnerable to pollution or adverse environmental effects. In this context, storm drains and drinking water wells are designated as sensitive receptors because they directly interact with natural resources and public health.

Storm drains can transport contaminants directly into water bodies, affecting aquatic life and ecosystems. Drinking water wells, on the other hand, are crucial for providing safe drinking water to the public. Contaminants reaching these wells could pose significant health risks to the population relying on that water source.

This understanding is vital in environmental assessments, as protecting these receptors is key to safeguarding public health and maintaining environmental quality. Other options, while relevant to environmental considerations, do not highlight the direct vulnerability related to human health and environmental impact in the same way as storm drains and drinking water wells do.