5.15: Sustainable Agriculture

What is the primary goal of soil conservation?

To prevent soil erosion.

Name one method of soil conservation.

Contour plowing, windbreaks, perennial crops, terracing, no-till agriculture, or strip cropping.

What is contour plowing?

Plowing parallel to natural slopes of the land to prevent water runoff and soil erosion.

What is terracing in agriculture?

Cutting flat platforms of soil into a steep slope to catch water and prevent runoff.

Define perennial crops.

Crops that live year-round and are harvested multiple times.

What purpose do windbreaks serve?

They block the wind to prevent topsoil erosion and provide habitat for wildlife.

What does no-till agriculture involve?

Leaving leftover crop remains in the soil instead of tilling, which adds organic matter and prevents erosion.

What is strip cropping?

Alternating rows of less dense crops to prevent runoff and erosion.

How does crop rotation improve soil fertility?

It allows soils to recover nutrients by alternating crops that demand different nutrition.

What is green manure?

Leftover plant matter from cover crops that releases nutrients into the soil when decomposed.

How does limestone affect soil?

It neutralizes acidic soil by releasing calcium carbonate and provides essential calcium to plants.

What is the significance of rotational grazing?

It prevents overgrazing by regularly rotating livestock, promoting healthier pasture growth.

Why is preventing soil erosion important?

To maintain soil moisture, nutrients, and the presence of decomposers and organic matter.