1. The Farm as an Ecosystem
How Large is My Ecosystem?

2. History of Food Production
Humans hunted and gathered in the area they lived.
When food sources depleted, they may have moved to a new area.
They formed groups to help meet their needs.

3. History of Food Production
Humans began planting seeds and keeping animals several thousand years ago.
A constant food and resource supply allowed them to stay in one place and communities grew. Quality of life also improved.
Extra food and resources were sold to nearby communities and eventually around the world.

4. Moving Agriculture
Today’s transportation systems (truck, train, plane, ship), consumer demand, and government cooperation allow us to buy foods and products from far away in little time.
We do not have to rely on our local resources to feed and clothe ourselves.
The area in which you interact and use resources is your ecosystem. Have you thought about how large that area may be?

5. Find where your favorite foods and goods come from
What do you think about the size of your ecosystem?