Shifting Cultivation
Shifting Cultivation has many links between social systems and food production systems. This type of agriculture is an example of extensive subsistence farming. This type of farming worked well when population densities were low. However, when population densities increase, farmers will return to old land before soil fertility returns. Many traditions and rituals are linked to this type of farming.
Questions: 1. How is low population densities and belief systems linked to slash and burn agricultural practices? 2. Why is it difficult to change peoples views on not using the slash and burn method of farming? |
Shifting cultivation follows cycles where forest clearings is used. Farmers will realize that plots of land have become infertile. As a result, farmers leave that plot of land until soil fertility is restored.
Use the following sites to learn more: 1. Amazon is burning. 2. Rainforest Threats. 3. Slash and burn agriculture in Africa. |