Solved by a verified expert:Answer each question with a
minimum of 40 words per question:
1)
Review the extensive course of soil formation and the food
chain.
In order for
conventional agriculture to produce a fast yield in consumer markets, many
synthetics are added to the soils and the diets of livestock for fast
growth.
Consider all that is put
into the soil in addition to the natural ingredients of air, water, minerals,
organisms and leaf litter. Added items include pesticides, herbicides,
fungicides, fertilizers. For livestock operations, consider the
additional components of hormones, antibiotics, preservatives and additives.
Some of these may be needed, but many are questioned by various health agencies
and consumer groups.
These items are
potentially hazardous to humans, according to your authors. Thus, they
ask us to consider the topics of alternative or sustainable farming, organic
farming, and integrated pest controls.
Find an article on
bioaccumulation or biomagnification of conventionally used agricultural
agents in species and human consumers (if you can) and summarize your
findings! Don’t forget to document your sources. What is your
conclusion?
2)
Earth states 3% of our
water resources is fresh water. We need water quantity!
Observe, in various
parts of the USA and the world, the need for fresh water. Can we
build a more efficient means to capture water? Can we plan to
use native plants instead of installing non native plants that require extra
water?
If we worked around
water, instead of interrupting its flow, how would this change the way we build
our communities? How can ecological planning be applied to city or
community planning? Give an example.
Did you know that the
EPA issues guidelines for what is acceptable levels of ‘particulates’ in water
and that you have a right to your water report?
You also have a right to
ask questions. Check outhttp://www.epa.gov
3)
Sustainable Agriculture
Technology – what is it?
Look up sustainable
agriculture. Here is a good link to start: https://attra.ncat.org/publication.html
What is current on
the USDA Sustainable Agriculture site? http://www.usda.gov How does sustainable farming differ from conventional farming?
Why is it best to
purchase these vs. ‘conventional’ foods? Did you know there are NO labels
for GMO’s (genetically modified foods)???
What do you think? What is your conclusion?
4)
All around the world, there is a need
for fresh quality water. Can we do a better job at conserving and
protecting our water resources? What is water
quality? How is it defined?
Last but not
least: summarize the Clean Water Act and note how it is applied where you
live. Do you know who to contact if you have a concern about clean
water? Who would that be?
Water management is a
very important aspect of every community. Here are some things to think
about:
Water resources need
conservation, purification, protection from run off, thermal pollution,
industrial and agricultural pollution. How can we eliminate this sign?
What water
issues exist in your community? (I live in El Paso Texas)
Find out what aspects of water management your water
department is currently working with!
What kind of wastewater treatment facility do you
have? How does it work?
Find out which water resources are protected wildlife
habitats or natural resource areas.
What is the water protection plan where you live?
Who can you work with to resolve water quality
problems?
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