The Dust Bowl refers to a period during the 1930s in the Great Plains of the United States when severe drought, coupled with unsustainable farming practices, led to massive dust storms and widespread soil erosion.
Related terms
Soil Erosion: The process where topsoil is displaced or removed from an area due to factors like wind or water. Think of it as your favorite garden slowly losing its fertile soil because of strong winds blowing away all the dirt.
Desertification: The transformation of arable land into desert-like conditions due to human activities or climate change. Picture a lush green field turning into a barren desert over time.
Dryland Farming: Agricultural practices designed for arid regions that rely on crops adapted to limited rainfall. It's like having a special type of plant that can survive in an environment with very little water.