Minnesota is the only one

[figs]

Minnesota is the only one of the contiguous forty-eight states that still has a sizable wolf population and where this predator remains the archenemy of cattle and sheep.

A. that still has a sizable wolf population, and where
B. that still has a sizable wolf population, where
C. that still has a sizable population of wolves, and where
D. where the population of wolves is still sizable;
E. where there is still a sizable population of wolves and where

[Vemuri]

IMO A.

The usage of relative pronoun "that" in this case is correct. The sentence also needs a conjunction "and" to combine the main clause & the subordinate clause.

B - has a run on error. A conjunction is required.
C - wordy
D - The introduction of ; (semicolon) is incorrect as the sentence that follows is a phrase & not an independent clause to stand on its own.
E - repetitive usage of "where" & also wordy.

[figs]

OA:E

[Vemuri]

OA:E

Do you have the OA explanation? E seemed correct to me, but the repetitive usage of the word "where" made me think otherwise. I remember reading somewhere that "where" should be used to reference places & it makes perfect sense here. I basically want to understand what is wrong with A. Thank you.

[cramya]

E

for PARALLELISM

When referring to places use "where"

where there .... and(parallel marker) where this.....

Moreover when stating facts, habits or generalization simple present is preferred.