Productivity Effects of Cropland Erosion in the United States

Book excerpt: In the 1970’s, agriculture in the United States seemed to be booming. With an extra demand for crops, extra acres were taken on to increase production which was predicted to increase further with an ever-growing population. However, concerns were beginning to be raised over the adequacy of land for crops as potential croplands began to be converted into urban areas as well as the effects of soil erosion decreasing the quality of these croplands. Originally published in 1983, this study investigates the threats to crop productivity in the U.S. with a focus on human-made problems. This title will be of interest to students of environmental studies.