Subsistence farming

Definition

Subsistence farming is a type of agricultural practice where farmers grow enough food to feed themselves and their families, with little to no surplus for sale or trade. This method relies on manual labor and traditional farming techniques, often involving diverse crops and livestock, which helps ensure that basic food needs are met in rural communities. It plays a crucial role in the historical development of agriculture and has shaped the economy and society in various regions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subsistence farming was prevalent among early colonial settlers who relied on growing their own food for survival in the harsh environments of North America.
2. Farmers practicing subsistence farming often cultivate a variety of crops to ensure that they have enough food throughout the year, adapting to local climate conditions.
3. The method is closely linked to sustainability as it promotes local food production and minimizes reliance on external markets.
4. Subsistence farming is not only about food production; it often includes livestock raising for additional resources like milk, eggs, and manure for fertilizing crops.
5. Despite its advantages, subsistence farming can make communities vulnerable to environmental changes and economic fluctuations due to their limited production capacities.

Review Questions

• How does subsistence farming reflect the agricultural practices of early colonial settlers in North America?
  • Early colonial settlers practiced subsistence farming primarily to ensure their survival in unfamiliar and often hostile environments. They relied on growing staple crops such as corn, beans, and squash, which were well-suited to local conditions. This type of farming allowed settlers to support themselves without depending on trade or markets, laying the foundation for community self-reliance during the formative years of American agriculture.
• What are the social and economic impacts of subsistence farming on rural communities?
  • Subsistence farming fosters strong community ties as families often work together to cultivate their land and share resources. Economically, it helps rural communities become self-sufficient by reducing reliance on external markets. However, this system can limit access to broader economic opportunities and make communities vulnerable to changes in climate or crop yields, impacting their overall resilience.
• Evaluate the long-term sustainability of subsistence farming in modern agricultural practices compared to commercial farming.
  • The long-term sustainability of subsistence farming relies heavily on local resources and biodiversity, often resulting in healthier ecosystems compared to large-scale commercial farming that emphasizes monoculture. While subsistence farming promotes food security and local resilience, it faces challenges such as limited access to technology and markets. In contrast, commercial farming can yield higher outputs but may lead to environmental degradation through overuse of chemicals and monocultures. Evaluating these practices highlights the importance of balancing local food systems with sustainable agricultural methods in the face of global challenges.

Related terms

Crop Rotation: A farming practice that involves alternating the types of crops grown in a particular area across different seasons to improve soil health and optimize production.

Barter System: An economic system where goods and services are directly exchanged for other goods and services without the use of money.

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): A model of agriculture where consumers buy shares of a farm's harvest in advance, supporting local farmers while receiving fresh produce throughout the growing season.