Understanding the Dust Bowl

What was a major consequence of cattle overgrazing on the plains?

• Degradation of the land

• Improved soil quality

• Increased rainfall

• Expansion of lush grasslands

What led to the soil being easily blown away during droughts?

• Heavy rainfall

• Introduction of new crops

• Removal of the turf cover by farmers

• The planting of trees

What was the primary goal of farmers in the 1920s?

• Conservation of water

• High paying wheat crops

• Raising livestock

• Sustainable farming practices

What year did the dry weather that contributed to the Dust Bowl begin?

• 1920

• 1950

• 1930

• 1940

How long did the droughts last during the Dust Bowl?

• 8 years

• 3 years

• 10 years

• 5 years

What was one of the main reasons the Dust Bowl conditions worsened?

• Natural soil erosion

• Careless cultivation practices

• Introduction of new farming equipment

• Overuse of water resources

What phenomenon turned day into night during the Dust Bowl?

• Eclipse

• Heavy rainfall

• Clouds of dust

• Fog

What was a common experience for those living through the Dust Bowl?

• Clear skies

• Abundant crops

• Frequent flooding

• Dust storms making it hard to breathe