Land and Water Use

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to land and water use, including sustainability practices, environmental impacts, and agricultural methods.

What is the tragedy of the commons?

The tragedy of the commons states that individuals tend to overexploit shared resources until they become unavailable to all.

What is clear-cutting?

Clear-cutting is a method of harvesting trees in large areas all at once for human use.

What are aquifers?

Aquifers are underground layers of water that can be tapped for irrigation and other uses.

What does sustainable agriculture aim to achieve?

Sustainable agriculture aims to meet the needs of the current generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

What impact does clear-cutting have on soil?

Clear-cutting can lead to increased soil erosion because tree roots that hold the soil are removed.

What is aquaculture?

Aquaculture is the farming of fish, shellfish, or aquatic plants in controlled environments.

What are the pros of drip irrigation?

Drip irrigation saves water by reducing evaporation loss.

What is the Green Revolution?

The Green Revolution refers to a series of research, development, and technology transfer initiatives that occurred between the 1940s and the late 1960s to increase agricultural production.

How does urbanization affect water infiltration?

Urbanization decreases water infiltration because impervious surfaces prevent water from seeping into the ground.

What is rotational grazing?

Rotational grazing is a livestock management practice that involves rotating animals between pastures to allow forage to recover.

What is the ecological footprint?

The ecological footprint measures the amount of land needed to support a person's or society's way of life.

What are the environmental issues associated with CAFOs?

CAFOs can lead to pollution from manure runoff, and disease outbreaks among densely populated animals.

What is integrated pest management (IPM)?

IPM is an agricultural practice aimed at controlling pest populations through a combination of methods while minimizing pesticide use.

What is desertification?

Desertification is the process by which fertile land becomes desert as a result of drought, overgrazing, or deforestation.

What are the benefits of crop rotation?

Crop rotation helps maintain soil health by preventing nutrient depletion and managing pests.

What is salinization?

Salinization is the accumulation of salts in soil, which can restrict plant growth.

What is the purpose of contour plowing?

Contour plowing is designed to reduce soil erosion by plowing along the contours of the land.

What is overgrazing?

Overgrazing occurs when too many animals graze an area, leading to vegetation loss and soil erosion.

What strategies can reduce urban runoff?

Strategies include using permeable surfaces and creating green spaces to allow water infiltration.

What are the environmental consequences of flood irrigation?

Flood irrigation can lead to high evaporation losses and increased salinization of the soil.

What is the role of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture?

GMOs are designed to improve crop yields by increasing disease resistance and drought tolerance.

What are herbicides?

Herbicides are chemicals used to destroy unwanted plants, such as weeds.

How does urban sprawl affect the environment?

Urban sprawl can lead to habitat destruction, increased pollution, and resource depletion.

What type of mining is less expensive and easier to carry out?

Surface mining is typically less expensive and easier than subsurface mining.

What is waterlogging?

Waterlogging occurs when soil becomes saturated with water, reducing oxygen availability for plants.

What is the purpose of prescribed burns?

Prescribed burns are used to prevent larger, uncontrolled forest fires by reducing fuel accumulation.

What is furrow irrigation?

Furrow irrigation involves creating trenches along crop rows that are then flooded with water.

What does the term 'impervious surfaces' refer to?

Impervious surfaces are materials like concrete that don't allow water to seep into the ground.

How can reforestation benefit the environment?

Reforestation helps restore ecosystems, improve air quality, and sequester carbon dioxide.

What is the concern with overfishing?

Overfishing threatens fish populations by removing them faster than they can replenish.

What is the main goal of sustainable forestry practices?

Sustainable forestry aims to meet present needs for forest products while ensuring that forests can provide for future generations.

What are pesticides?

Pesticides are substances used to kill pests, including insects, fungi, rodents, and unwanted plants.