Farming practices have changed dramatically over the last 100 years. As scientists have helped farmers learn to manage crops and protect the soil today. Farmers in the US grow more food per acre than they ever before. And soil erosion has been slowed. Which best explains why farmers go more food when less soil erosion today than they did a hundred years ago
The main reason why farmers today are able to grow more food per acre with less soil erosion than a hundred years ago is due to advancements in agricultural science and technology. Here are some factors that have contributed to this improvement:
1. Improved crop varieties: Scientists and breeders have developed high-yielding crop varieties that are more resistant to pests, diseases, and adverse environmental conditions. These improved varieties have higher productivity, allowing farmers to obtain larger yields from the same amount of land.
2. Efficient fertilizers: The development of synthetic fertilizers, which provide essential nutrients required for plant growth, has significantly increased crop yields. Farmers can now customize their fertilizer application based on soil nutrient analysis, ensuring optimal nutrient uptake by plants.
3. Precision farming techniques: Modern technologies such as GPS, remote sensing, and drone applications have enabled farmers to practice precision agriculture. With these tools, farmers can target specific areas of their fields that require fertilizers, pesticides, or irrigation, thereby minimizing waste and reducing the overall environmental impact.
4. Advanced machinery: Farm equipment has undergone significant advancements, allowing farmers to perform tasks more efficiently and effectively. From sophisticated planting and harvesting machinery to precise irrigation systems, modern equipment helps optimize crop growth while minimizing soil disturbance and erosion.
5. Sustainable soil management practices: Farmers today have access to extensive research and knowledge on soil health and conservation practices. Techniques like crop rotation, cover cropping, minimum tillage, and contour farming help protect the soil from erosion, increase organic matter content, improve water retention, and maintain overall soil fertility.
6. Government initiatives and policies: Over time, governments and agricultural institutions have taken steps to promote sustainable farming practices and provide farmers with resources for education, training, and financial support. These initiatives have helped impart knowledge and encourage the adoption of methods that lead to increased food production and reduced soil erosion.
In summary, a combination of scientific advancements, improved crop varieties, precision farming techniques, advanced machinery, sustainable soil management practices, and supportive policies have enabled farmers to grow more food per acre while minimizing soil erosion.