The effect of clearing agricultural lands clean of all vegetation and or trees include the following except
Answer Details
Clearing agricultural lands clean of all vegetation and trees can have several negative effects on the soil and the surrounding environment. However, one of the effects that is not usually associated with this activity is the complete removal of soil nutrients.
When plants and trees are removed from the land, the soil is exposed to several environmental factors such as wind, rain, and direct sunlight. These factors can cause soil erosion, which can lead to the loss of topsoil and the exposure of subsoil. When subsoil is exposed, it can make it difficult for plants to grow, as subsoil often lacks the necessary nutrients and organic matter needed for plant growth.
Furthermore, the heavy machinery used for clearing the land can cause soil compaction, which can also make it difficult for plants to grow. Compacted soil restricts the movement of air, water, and nutrients, which can stunt the growth of plants and reduce crop yields.
Clearing land can also contribute to desertification, which is the process of fertile land becoming desert. Desertification occurs when soil erosion and other environmental factors deplete the soil of its nutrients and organic matter, making it impossible for plants to grow.
In summary, while clearing agricultural lands of all vegetation and trees does not result in the complete removal of soil nutrients, it can have several other negative effects on the soil and the surrounding environment, including exposure of soil to erosion, compaction of soil, desertification, and exposure of subsoil.