QUIZ: Farming for the Future

Each March, National Agriculture Day serves as a time to recognize the hard work and contributions of farmers, ranchers and others connected to the industry. As agriculture evolves, these individuals explore new ways to conserve and manage resources, increase productivity and ensure longevity.

The National FFA Organization also has strong ties to production agriculture. FFA members and alums across the country, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands continue to make strides in the areas of research and development, plant and soil science, technology and more.

Ready to put your knowledge to the test? Fill in the blanks below by selecting from the list of common conservation practices used in agriculture.

1. _____ includes planting between growing seasons, with the aim of improving soil health, controlling runoff of water and nutrients and preventing weeds.

2. _____ involves switching up which crop is planted in a field to replenish nutrients, disrupt pests and weeds and decrease the chance of diseases.

3. By leaving crop residue on the soil surface, ______ can help producers improve soil health, reduce erosion and conserve moisture.

4. Through the process of ______, water and nutrients are applied to growing plants at specific intervals.

5. _____ uses information about life cycles, interactions with the environment and control methods to economically minimize or prevent damage.

6. _____ includes collecting information and managing data to improve efficiency and productivity.

7. Through ______, producers apply what’s needed at the right time and in the right amounts to increase yields and reduce runoff.

Common Conservation Practices:

1. Crop rotation

2. Conservation tillage

3. Precision agriculture

4. Cover-cropping

5. Nutrient management