Which of the following potential problems can arise from ground squirrel gnawing?

The correct choice highlights that ground squirrels can cause damage to irrigation lines. This is an important consideration in agricultural and landscaping practices, as these rodents are known for their burrowing behavior and tendency to gnaw on various materials. When ground squirrels create their tunnels, they often inadvertently damage essential infrastructure like irrigation lines, which can lead to water loss, reduced efficiency in irrigation systems, and increased maintenance costs.

Damage to these lines can disrupt the flow of water to plants and crops, potentially leading to stress or failure of these systems. Understanding this risk is crucial for anyone managing land or working in irrigation, as it underscores the need for monitoring and implementing mitigation strategies to protect irrigation infrastructure from wildlife.

In contrast, the other options relate to either beneficial outcomes or incorrect associations. For instance, creation of tunnels may not necessarily benefit irrigation, and improvements in tree resilience or soil quality typically wouldn't result from ground squirrel activity, which primarily damages rather than enhances.