GEOG M107 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Natural Resources Conservation Service, Soil Conservation, Row Crop
Document Summary
Soil erosion) is of greater concern than temporary shortages of food supply (ex. sugar) The purpose of soil conservation: not only to preserve soil, but to maintain productive capacity while using it. Example: intensive cropping uses the soil but often causes erosion on sloping land. Soil erosion: water or wind removes the soil"s clay and humus leaves behind sand, gravel, stones. Soil"s fertility is associated with the clay and humus (important components of microbial activity, soil structure, permeability, water story) Until recent decades, people used more land as production of food increased. It was suggested that 1 hectare (2. 5 acres) of cropland per person was needed to maintain a satisfactory standard of living. Now: population is increasing cropland will be down to 01. Production depends on soil, crop, climate, management, land area. Increased production cropland has to be used more intensively. New crop varieties and increased fertilization higher yields.
