Soil Conservation

1.     Discuss how the methods of no-till or conservation tillage farming, as described in your text, can enhance soil quality.

a.     Farmers leave crops in the ground so that their roots prevent erosion and organic remains return nutrients to the soil. Also the roots pull water deeper into the soil creating better soil.

2.     What other benefits can these methods have?

a.     This method is cheaper than tilling and more efficient.

3.     What drawbacks or negative effects might no-till or conservation tillage practices have on soil and water quality, and how might these be prevented?

a.     Organic matter may make it harder for some seeds to germinate. It also presents a higher probability of mold growth.

4.     Besides no-till farming, select two other methods or approaches described in the chapter that you feel are promoting the science or practice of soil conservation.  In reference to Aldo Leopold’s land ethics (p. 144), how are humans and the soil members of the same community?

a.      Crop Rotations & Shelterbelts

b.     Humans receive their sustenance from te ground and if the quality of soil decreases it will be harder for us to create enough food to support our growing population.