All Flashcards
Define sustainable agriculture.
Using resources wisely to meet current needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs.
What is contour plowing?
Plowing with the land's natural curves to minimize soil disturbance and erosion.
Define no-till agriculture.
An agricultural technique that minimizes soil preparation and disturbance.
What are windbreaks/shelterbelts?
Rows of trees or bushes planted to block the wind and protect soil from erosion.
Define terracing.
Creating flat steps on hillsides to reduce soil loss on slopes.
What is strip farming?
Alternating rows of crops with unplanted areas to prevent erosion and improve soil health.
Define crop rotation.
Planting different crops in a sequence to improve soil health and fertility.
What is green manure?
Letting leftover crop parts decompose in the soil to add nutrients.
Define pasture rotation.
Rotating grazing areas for livestock to prevent overgrazing and maintain pasture health.
What are hedgerows?
Windbreaks planted at the edges of fields for extra protection against wind erosion.
Why is soil conservation important?
It prevents erosion, maintains soil health, and ensures long-term food production.
What is the benefit of legumes in crop rotation?
Legumes add nitrogen back into the soil, which is beneficial for subsequent crops.
What is the role of calcium in soil health?
Calcium, added through limestone, is essential for plant growth.
How do sustainable practices relate to ecosystem services?
Sustainable practices help maintain soil health, which is a crucial ecosystem service.
What is the primary goal of sustainable agriculture?
To balance human needs with the planet's needs, ensuring long-term resource availability.
How does no-till agriculture reduce erosion?
By minimizing soil disturbance and keeping the soil structure intact.
What is the benefit of using limestone in agriculture?
Limestone adds calcium and raises the pH of the soil, improving plant growth conditions.
What is the main advantage of pasture rotation?
It prevents overgrazing, which keeps pastures healthy and sustainable.
What is the purpose of green manure?
To add nutrients back to the soil, acting as a natural and free fertilizer.
How do windbreaks contribute to soil health?
They protect the soil from wind erosion, preventing the loss of topsoil.
Why is soil health important?
Healthy soil supports plant growth, prevents erosion, and contributes to overall ecosystem health.
How does contour plowing prevent soil erosion?
By following the land's natural curves, it minimizes soil disturbance and reduces water runoff, thus preventing erosion.
What are the benefits of no-till agriculture?
Reduces erosion, keeps soil structure intact, and can improve water infiltration.
How do windbreaks protect soil?
They act as a barrier, reducing wind speed and preventing wind erosion of topsoil.
What is the purpose of terracing on steep slopes?
Creates flat areas to reduce water runoff and soil erosion, making it possible to cultivate otherwise unusable land.
How does crop rotation improve soil health?
Different crops have different nutrient needs and can replenish specific nutrients in the soil, preventing depletion.
What role do legumes play in crop rotation?
Legumes add nitrogen back into the soil, which is essential for plant growth and reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers.
How does green manure benefit the soil?
Adds organic matter and nutrients back into the soil, improving its structure and fertility.
Why is calcium important for plant growth?
Calcium is an essential nutrient for cell wall development and overall plant health.
What are ecosystem services?
The many and varied benefits that humans freely gain from the natural environment and from properly-functioning ecosystems. Soil health is a crucial ecosystem service.