human geo u5

Intensive Agricultural Practices

Agricultural methods that require high capital and labor, typically near population centers to yield high outputs.

Extensive Agricultural Practices

Farming methods that use more land with less labor and capital; usually located farther from urban areas.

Bid Rent Theory

The theory that land prices vary with proximity to the urban center, affecting agricultural land use patterns.

Monocropping

Growing the same crop repeatedly each year, which can lead to soil depletion due to lack of diversity.

Sustainable Agriculture

Farming practices that prioritize environmental health, economic profitability, and social equity, often avoiding chemicals.

Green Revolution

A period of agricultural transformation in the mid-20th century marked by the introduction of high-yield crops and advanced farming techniques.

Nomadic Herding

A form of extensive agriculture involving the herding of domesticated animals and moving across vast areas.

Columbian Exchange

The widespread exchange of plants, animals, goods, and diseases between the Americas and the Old World following Columbus's voyages.

Agro-business

Large-scale agricultural operations that are often economically focused, utilizing advanced technology and methods.

Physical Environment's Influence on Agriculture

The concept that climate, soil type, and geography significantly determine what crops can be grown in different regions.

Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA)

A system where consumers buy shares of a farm's harvests, supporting local agriculture and reducing food miles.

First Agricultural Revolution

The transition around 10,000 BCE from hunting-gathering societies to settled farming, resulting in stable populations.

Aquaculture

The farming of aquatic animals and plants, often focusing on a few species for mass production.

Livestock Ranching

Extensive agricultural practice focused on raising animals, usually found in less fertile areas far from urban centers.

CAFOs (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations)

Large livestock farms that aim to maximize production by feeding animals in confined spaces.

Terrace Farming

A method of growing crops on stepped levels to reduce soil erosion and manage water runoff.

Urban Farming

Small-scale farming initiatives located in urban areas, which can help address food deserts and promote local food.

Agricultural Commodity Chains

The process by which food products are grown, processed, and distributed to consumers, involving many steps.

Economic Inequality in Agriculture

The disparity in resources and opportunities between large agri-businesses and small family farms, often leading to greater poverty.

Irrigation

The artificial application of water to assist in the growing of crops, which can lead to environmental issues if overused.

Gender Inequality in Agriculture

The disparity in the recognition and compensation of women in agriculture, often rooted in traditional gender roles.