Erosion And Soil Productivity

Erosion effects - experiment evaluations; Chemical and physical effects of erosion and relation to productivity; Quantitative assessment of the effects of erosion on soil productivity; Economic and resources allocation.

In the 1970’s, agriculture in the United States seemed to be booming. With an extra demand for crops, extra acres were taken on to increase production which was predicted to increase further with an ever-growing population. However, concerns were beginning to be raised over the adequacy of land for crops as potential croplands began to be converted into urban areas as well as the effects of soil erosion decreasing the quality of these croplands. Originally published in 1983, this study investigates the threats to crop productivity in the U.S. with a focus on human-made problems. This title will be of interest to students of environmental studies.

Soil erosion is a major environmental issue with a worldwide impact and direct and indirect effects on soil productivity and consequently on human survival. Although a natural process, soil erosion has increased significantly due to human intervention, especially in the last centuries, through diverse activities such as intensive agriculture, overgrazing, urban sprawl, deforestation, and industrial and mining activities. Presently, soil erosion and degradation promoted by human action have reached extreme levels, necessitating urgent measures to promote soil conservation and rehabilitation. This book presents perspectives on soil erosion occurring in different parts of the world as well as some successful initiatives and strategies for soil conservation and rehabilitation.