L1- Grazing Systems Overview

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts on sustainability in grazing systems as discussed in the lecture.

Sustainability

The ability to maintain productivity and viability over time in ecological and agricultural systems without degrading the resource base.

Feed Base

The combination of pasture and soil that provides feed for livestock, essential for a productive grazing system.

Ecological Stability

The ability of an ecosystem to maintain balance and resilience in the face of disturbances or changes.

Ground Cover

The layer of vegetation that covers the soil surface, important for preventing erosion and maintaining soil health.

Degradation

The deterioration of the quality of land and resources due to overuse or mismanagement.

Stocking Rate

The number of animals per unit area of land, important for managing pasture health and productivity.

Soil pH

A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of soil, which affects nutrient availability and plant growth.

Natural Ecosystem

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment, typically stable and self-sustaining.

Productivity

The rate at which goods (such as crops or livestock) are produced in an agricultural system.

Long-term Viability

The capacity of a system to remain functional and productive over an extended period, maintaining resources.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, which contributes to resilience and functionality.

Life Cycle Analysis

A method for assessing the environmental impacts associated with all the stages of a product's life from cradle to grave.