Dry Farming
An agricultural technique for the non-irrigated cultivation of crops
Real World Example
During the Westward Expansion of the 1800s-1900s, dry farming was crucial for settlers moving to the arid Great Plains, where water was scarce. It allowed farmers to grow crops without relying on irrigation by using techniques like deep plowing and soil mulching to retain moisture. This method responded to the challenge of farming in dry climates, enabling settlers to sustain themselves and develop communities. Today, dry farming remains important due to increasing water scarcity, making sustainable agriculture practices essential. For example, farmers in drought-prone areas like California use dry farming to grow tomatoes, conserving water and ensuring local food supplies continue to thrive.
