Transition: Low to High Impact Agriculture
It is important to note that the biggest changes in agricultural production have occurred in very recent history, and have led to a substantial increase in productivity gains in the highest quality land. The landscape that was once lightly grazed, with diversified crops and low intensity farming practices through this process becomes a highly intensified. This is done through specialization, intensification, concentration and maximizing efficiency in all levels of production. This means that crops are planted closer together at higher densities, utilizing chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides as well as relying almost exclusively on GMO’s. This creates a ‘simplified agricultural landscape’ that is harsh to many native plants and animals. It difficult for them to survive under such circumstances, with repetitive cultivation, high density planting, and the many chemicals applied for optimal pest management and plant growth.
Food supplies and essential habitat are lost for species that could have otherwise co-existed on farmland that used low-impact practices. This suggests that a substantial increase in agriculture that utilizes low impact farming, coupled with integrated pest management (IPM) is the best solution for preserving biodiversity, and in doing so, protecting land for future use.
Food supplies and essential habitat are lost for species that could have otherwise co-existed on farmland that used low-impact practices. This suggests that a substantial increase in agriculture that utilizes low impact farming, coupled with integrated pest management (IPM) is the best solution for preserving biodiversity, and in doing so, protecting land for future use.