Abstract This paper discusses the plant, Melilotus alba. a White Sweet Clover which was introduced to the United States from Eurasia in the seventeenth century. The paper reviews the different climatic conditions in which it thrives, as it's a hardy, adaptable plant, suitable for a wide range of environments, and can reproduce both as an annual and as a biennial. Although it is useful both as a forage crop and as a source of nectar for honeybees, it has become an ecological problem in the States because of its vigorous displacement of native plants.
From the Paper "Melilotus Alba Melilotus alba is also known as White Sweet Clover, White Melilot, or Bokara Clover. It belongs to the Phyllum Magnoliophyta, the Class Magnoliopsida, the Order Fabales, the Family Fabaceae, and the Genus Melilotus, which means literally, "honey plant". A related form of Melilotus is Melilotus officinalis, popularly called Yellow Sweet Clover. Both forms originated in Eurasia, but have become naturalized in North and South America, and Australia (Turkington, Cavers and Rempel, 1978, pp. 523-524). Depending on how favourable its environment is, Melilotus alba can be an annual or biennial. It is quite adaptable to a range of habitats."
Abstract This paper discusses the diversity gradient of trees in between southern and northern Europe. The paper looks at two perspectives. The first is the equilibrium hypothesis and the second is the disequilibrium hypothesis. This essay explores two researchers' arguments about the latitudinal diversity gradient of woody plants in Europe.
From the Paper "Questions about biodiversity levels in different regions have been puzzling scientists for many years. For example, one of the largest questions in biodiversity is why is species diversity higher in the tropics then in temperate zones (Silvertown, 1985, p. 519). Two broad categories of hypotheses have been used to explain the differences in tropical and temperate biodiversity. The first are generally known as equilibrium hypotheses. Equilibrium hypotheses argue that present climatic and biotic conditions determine latitudinal biodiversity (MacDonald, 2003, p. 422). Disequilibrium or historical hypotheses argue that past conditions are more important (MacDonald, 2003, p. 415). "
Abstract The Canadian agricultural industry has lobbied the Canadian federal and provincial governments for a number of years for greater attention upon the needs of this industry. However, while all industries and their stakeholders lobby governments for assistance in various respects, the agricultural industry is unique for both the highly public nature of its lobbying and the consistency of issues upon which this sector is focused. This paper explains that the agricultural industry is one of the most significant industries in Canada and then discusses the Canadian agricultural industry's lobbying efforts.
Abstract The agricultural industry represents a significant fraction of the overall Canadian economy in terms of both employment and most economic measures. However, as this essay shows, this is a sector of the economy that feels under considerable pressure and is in need of government assistance. The paper also demonstrates that government assistance can be supported by the ideology of capitalism and, in particular, the type of capitalism known as mercantilism that advocates government assistance to business to compete more strongly in the international marketplace.
Abstract Canada's economy is performing at a median point on the international level. Canada is unique in that it demonstrates the lowest investment share in GNP but also the greatest net exports. In other respects, Canada occupies the international middle ground in virtually every category. Canada, along with other nations who wish to compete internationally now understands that competitiveness must now be defined in a broader, international context. This paper examines the Canadian agricultural industry in terms of its significance to the health and success of the Canadian economy. The paper goes on to discuss the importance of the United States to Canada's economy, pointing out that the United States is currently Canada's largest export market, the main reason being that "Canada's agriculture and agri-food industry has benefited from greater and more secure access to the U.S. market under the NAFTA".
Abstract While the Canadian agriculture industry may not have the prominence of other sectors of the Canadian economy, such as the automotive or aerospace industries, it remains a significant element of both the Canadian domestic and export sectors. This essay demonstrates that this industry is a not only a major employer, but its health and expansion are critical elements in Canada's global economic position.
Abstract Perhaps no other industry is as dependent upon variables over which it has no control as the agricultural industry is. This paper produces a cross sectional comparison and contrast of three regions in British Columbia: Cariboo region, Peace River, and Kootenay. The paper highlights how climatic factors and soil composition factors impact upon the respective agricultural sectors of the aforementioned areas. In addition to illuminating how areas that are fairly close to one another geographically can still produce astonishing climatic and geological diversity the paper also reveals how primary industries like agriculture take on new shapes in different regions because of the physical feature of the land.
Abstract This paper reviews an issue within the scope of urban sustainability. The issue deals with urban agriculture placing special emphasis on community gardening. The assignment looks at the environmental, economic and social benefits of urban agriculture and community gardens.
From the Paper "Urban sustainability has become an increasingly common issue in recent years. One area in which urban areas are not sustainable is in terms of food. The best way of increasing food security within urban areas is through urban agriculture. Community gardens in particular are an important way of increasing food security in urban areas while also providing a number of other social and environmental benefits. These benefits will go a long way towards increasing urban sustainability. Sustainable Development, Urban sustainability and Food Insecurity The idea of sustainable development has become very popular in recent years."
Abstract Potatoes are the world's most widely grown vegetable. However, this status is being challenged by other carbohydrate staples around the world due to changing diets and quality perceptions. This paper examines the basic biology of the potato, agriculture and cultivation and market access.
From the Paper "In order to achieve maximum yield potential with acceptable quality, it is important to select the most appropriate combinations of potato genotypes, environmental conditions and management practices. Maximum yield is not necessarily a desirable goal - the impact of achieving maximum yield on the tuber quality and marketability of the crop must be considered. Sometimes the factors influencing the quality of the tubers, conflict with those involved in maximising the yield. Conditions required to ensure a high yield include: a frost free growing season, warm days (>18oC) and cool nights, periods of low humidity to facilitate control of leaf disease and well drained soils. The canopy of the potato plant above the soil needs to be kept alive and functional for approximately 95 days after the start of tuber initiation. ie: growth needs to be maintained for 95 days so that young, photosynthetically active tissue is maintained."
Abstract This paper examines the assumption that the gene revolution--represented by the integration of genetic engineering techniques into the field of agriculture--is capable of positively affecting the current human population crisis. The study examines this very ideological assumption that has not largely been challenged in the popular or critical literature on the subject. It then attacks that assumption and illustrates its erroneous base.
Table of Contents:
Chapter One: Introduction and Statement of Problem
1.1 Statement of Problem
1.2 Purpose of the Study
1.3 Importance of the Study
1.4 Scope of the Study
1.5 Rationale of the Study
1.6 Definition of Terms
1.7 Overview of the Study
Chapter Two: Literature Review
2.1 Scope of the Literature Review
2.2 Intensification of Production is Favourable
2.3 Intensification of Production is Unfavourable
Chapter Three: Methodology
3.1 Approach
3.2 Data Gathering Method
3.3 Database of Study
3.4 Validity of Study
3.5 Originality and Limitations
Chapter Four: Data Analysis
Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
From the Paper "In order to fully examine that relationship, it was necessary to critically examine literature, statistics, and historical examples that might shed some light on the relationship that exist between food production and population growth. Additionally, studies were consulted that spoke to the capacity for genetically modified foods to increase agricultural production. In all, the range of information required for this study was significant and at times may have appeared to stray beyond the limited scope of genetically modified food. However, in order to demonstrate the manner by which genetically modified food would have its greatest negative impact upon human societies, it was essential to take a broader look at the role that genetically modified foods have played in the intense push to intensify agricultural production year after year in order to presumably keep up with geometric population growth by always generating more food than is needed."
Abstract The paper examines water's importance in the history of the world, which can be clearly seen in early civilizations and their dependence upon the availability and location of water. The paper explores how early societies structured their city life, agricultural practices, sanitary systems, and even politics around their sources and uses of water. The paper further examines how the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, India, Hebrews, and the Phoenicians are all examples of "hydraulic" civilizations to varying degrees. The paper concludes that the importance of water can be clearly seen through the locations and achievements of early civilizations.
From the Paper "An interesting difference between the hydraulic civilizations of India and the hydraulic civilizations of Egypt and Mesopotamia is the absence of powerful kings and rulers. Whereas the kings and pharaohs of the other societies oversaw the creation of the hydraulic system and forced labor into the construction and maintenance of it, "it is very difficult to square this hypothesis with what is known about the Indus civilization. There is no evidence of kings, slaves, or forced mobilization of labor" (crystalinks)."
Tags: Indus, River, pharaoh, Neolithic, Middle, Kingdom, Faiyum
Abstract This paper discusses if the AgBiotechnology Industry is perceived inside the Social Contract frame or not. The paper also discusses the consideration of the perception of social contract theory and the degree to which is it accepted or otherwise; as well as to what extent this perception can be seen to provide possible solutions to the problematic issues of the AgBiotechnology industry and society.
Table of Contents:
Conclusion
Preamble towards a conclusion
The perception of modern technology
Towards an integrated approach
From the Paper "Despite the view of trust put forward by theorists like Gauther who views trust as essentially a rational part of the of the contractual agreement, trust can also be seen in terms of the integration of the various other factors, such as reciprocity and exposure to knowledge. Seen from an integrated perspective, trust increases and extends the various components of the Social Contract and increases the potentiality towards a positive perception of AgBiotechnology.
Furthermore, trust also suggests a strong social dimension. It is in this sense that the problematics of perception and the variables related to the perception of new technologies such as AgBiotechnology can be reduced, and a more cohesive and less divisive perception of this technology can possibly be achieved."
Abstract According to this paper, agroterrorism is a particularly dangerous form of terrorism that has the potential to destroy many lives and disrupt economies throughout the world. The paper reviews and discusses the many factors that contribute to the motivations for Agroterrorism. The paper further reviews the possibilities available to protect against the threat posed by agroterrorism including security and additional surveillance.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Literature Review
-What is Agroterrorism?
-Motivations for Agroterrorism
-Protecting against Agroterrorism
Methodology
Analysis
Conclusion
From the Paper "According to chalk (2005) Agroterrorism is defined as "the deliberate introduction of a disease agent, either against livestock or into the food chain, for purposes of undermining socioeconomic stability and/or generating fear. Depending on the disease agent and pathogenic vector chosen, Agroterrorism is a tactic that can be used either to cause mass socioeconomic disruption or as a form of direct human aggression (Chalk 2004, vi)." Kohnen (2000) asserts that threat of an agroterrorist event could be contingent upon the following three factors: (1) a terrorist or terrorist group must posses the technical ability to get hold of and deploy the weapon (Kohnen 2000). (2) the terrorist or terrorist group must be attracted to sickening or killing animals or crops as a part of its goal (Kohnen 2000). (3) the terrorist or terrorist group must have the desire to carry out their goal through the use of a Biological Weapon (Kohnen 2000)."
Abstract This paper looks at the Columbian Exchange, an accidental byproduct of the Old World coming together with the New World which provided a forum for the exchange of many things including plants, animals and disease. It further discusses how the Columbian Exchange provided a massive transformation of the world's eco-system which had a significant impact on mankind.
Outline:
Introduction
How the Process Began
The Not so Nice Side of the Exchange
Understanding the Environmental Impact
Significance
Conclusion
From the Paper "The beginning of what is now referred to as the Columbian Exchange arrived during the second voyage to North America by Christopher Columbus and the 1,200 men he brought with him. It was at that time that Europeans arrived on North American soil. This event triggered a massive transformation of the global ecosystem because the arrival of the Europeans sparked the beginning of the two areas of the world sharing and trading flora, fauna and disease(Columbia pp). It was a time in which the Old World met with the New World and neither side was prepared ecologically for the onslaught that the introduction of eco-system elements to the environments would bring. "
Abstract This paper examines how the invention of the cotton gin at the end of the eighteenth century marked the beginning of American industry in many ways, as it adapted a new technology to agriculture and increased the ability of an industry to produce at a saving in cost and time. It looks at how Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin in 1793 and how the principle he employed would then be used in thousands of cotton gins around the world, at one time preparing over 98 percent of the American crop for market.
From the Paper "The invention also changed the nature of agriculture thereafter. Only a few farmers raised cotton at the time, and black-seed or long-staple cotton was the only viable cotton crop. While the seeds could be removed from this variety easily, the crop could not be raised profitably beyond the Sea Islands of South Carolina and Georgia or more than fifty miles inside the interior of the coastal plain. In 1793, the farmers in South Carolina and Georgia only raised about three million pounds, and by 1811, southern farmers were producing 80 million pounds. Because of the invention of the cotton gin, cotton culture was able to expand to the West (Hurt 93)."
