Climate Change on the Farm

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to climate change and its impact on livestock production.

Understanding Climate Change

Climate change is a long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place.

Anthropogenic Climate Change

Climate change that is caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.

Hockey Stick Graph

A graphical representation that shows a sharp increase in global temperatures after a long period of relatively stable temperatures.

Enteric Fermentation

A digestive process in ruminant animals that produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Mitigation Strategies

Actions taken to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).

Impact of Livestock on Climate

Livestock production contributes to climate change through methane emissions and land use changes, affecting CO2 levels.

Positive Impacts of Climate Change

Longer growing seasons and an increase in frost-free days, which can benefit some agricultural practices.

Negative Impacts of Climate Change

Extreme weather conditions, reduced water supply, and increased risks of diseases affecting livestock.

Manure Management

Practices related to the handling, storage, and application of manure to minimize environmental impacts.

Plastic Cover for Rain Collection

Using plastic covers to collect rainwater, thereby minimizing evaporation and increasing water availability for livestock.

Genetic Selection for Climate Resilience

Identifying and breeding livestock with genetic traits that enhance their ability to adapt to changing climate conditions.

Long-Term Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture

Acknowledge that climate change will worsen, complicating agricultural practices and affecting livestock production.

Water Quality and Availability

The availability of clean water and its quality are impacted by climate change, posing challenges for livestock production.