Subsistence farming

Subsistance farming

1. Subsistence Farming By Ciaran Reddy

2. Benefits of Subsistence Farms A sustainable source of food A place to practice sustainable methods of growing, gathering foods and using natural resources Good for the soil and local ecosystems Very affordable as long as the work is put in

3. Family Based Small farms Workers made up of immediate and sometimes extended family members All produce goes to the family All the income gained goes back into the farm Sustainability is practiced avidly Processes that reduce manpower, money and taxed utilities are used There are two main types: Community Based Somewhat larger establishments Farmers gather a small community that all live on a farm or plot of land Most of the produce is used by the community, some is sold More time to spend on perfecting sustainable practices Many minds bring many oppinions to the table

4. Where Subsistence Farms are Found Impoverished Areas/Developing Nations These farms support families or communities who are barely getting by Every inch of land is used and all the product goes back into feeding the family Very patriarchal family settings and not many opportunities for schooling Developed Nations These farms can sustain larger communities Focused on developing sustainable living methods Money plays a larger part in the upkeep of the farm and development of methods Forms of selling produce are used to gain money for the farm and provide the community with alternatives in food

5. Tajikistan America

6. Methods of Farming Part of subsistence farming is using the littlest space to produce the most Different methods are used to acquire such a goal These beds a tiered garden beds They utilize a hilled area that would otherwise be difficult to farm Water uses gravity to travel between garden beds

7. Methods Cont. Intercropping Maximizes variation and use of space Plants work together to provide each other with nutrients and distribute water between levels Creates a medley of dead material to revitalize the soil

8. COMPOST! Deteriorating organic materials add nutrients and minerals to the soil Provides each new bed a new layer of health and richness Easy to make and a very sufficient process CHICKENS Natural fertilizer They are used to clear an area of grass and weeds They then poop on the soil, adding more nutrients to the soil and churning it in Fertilizer

9. Rain Barrels Very inexpensive and easily assembled A sustainable, free water source Natural Wells More difficult to build but much more rewarding Sometimes drinkable Water

10. CSAs provide income for the farm that can be used for more seed and starts It also provides an alternative food option for locals

11. Farmers markets are another source of income and gives the local community healthy food and jobs Farmers markets can also be a place for local arts and crafts

12. Summary With all these forms and methods of farming, such practices could be a medium for the next generation of sustainable living. Not only is the work visibly satisfying but it brings people together and nurtures ideas. It is a great way to conserve our planet and live fully.