What are The Types of Subsistence Agriculture? Here, we will discuss in this article the types of subsistence farming and how they differ from one another. We’ll look at the different techniques used, as well as what makes them unique and efficient. Lastly, we’ll discuss how these traditional forms of agricultural production can help improve some countries’ food security levels.
What is Sustainable Agriculture?
Sustainable agriculture is a way of farming that seeks to sustain farmers, resources and communities by promoting practices and methods that are profitable, environmentally sound and good for communities.
It is an approach to agriculture that fits into and complements modern agriculture, rewarding the true values of producers and their products. Sustainable agriculture draws from organic farming while also harnessing new technologies and renewing the best practices of the past.
Sustainable agriculture promotes practices such as soil health, water conservation, reduced chemical inputs, biodiversity protection and animal welfare. Additionally, local food production reduces transportation costs, while building strong local economies and helping to combat the impacts of climate change.
What are The Types of Subsistance Farming
Shifting agriculture is a type of subsistence farming that involves clearing patches of forest land by felling and burning, and then planting crops.
After two to three years, the fertility of the soil begins to decline, so the farmer moves on to clear a fresh piece of land elsewhere in the forest. This process continues until the land is left fallow and the forest regrows in the cleared area.
Shifting agriculture is an age-old practice that is often utilized by indigenous communities who lack access to resources. It allows them to make use of their local environment while still providing food for their families, and can be an effective way to sustainably produce food without relying on external inputs.
Sedentary farming
Sedentary farming is an agriculture technique that involves intensively cultivating small fields near the homestead. It pairs with slash and burn methods to clear land and provide fertilizer in the form of ash, household refuse, and manure. Farmers use compost regularly and may even irrigate their fields if water sources are available.
Sedentary farming has been used by many cultures for centuries, allowing farmers to efficiently use local resources without having to move. This type of farming is a great way for communities to increase food security while preserving their environment.
Nomadic herding
Nomadic herding is a type of farming that involves migrating with animals from one place to another in search of food and resources. This way of life is common in parts of central and western Asia, India, east and southwest Africa, and northern Eurasia. Nomadic herders typically keep cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and/or yaks for milk, skin, meat, and wool.
Nomadic herding is a practice that has been used for centuries as a means of survival by allowing herders to move their animals to areas with more food or better weather. It requires knowledge of the land and the animals, as well as interpersonal skills in order to build relationships with other nomads.
Intensive subsistence farming
Intensive subsistence farming is a type of agricultural practice that utilizes a small plot of land with simple tools and labor to produce enough food for local consumption, while any extra produce is exchanged for other goods. This type of farming is better suited to climates with lots of sunshine and fertile soils.
Intensive subsistence farming is an ancient technique used to maximize crop yields, with terraces created on steep hillsides and high yields of food per acre. This form of agriculture has allowed people to survive in difficult environments and is a major part of many cultures.