1. The process of incorporating observations about a situation or phenomenon into a framework of prior knowledge, allowing one to propose possible explanations for it. This type of reasoning is necessary for the formulation of hypotheses using the scientific method. 2. Using specific observations or accepted scientific facts to develop tentative explanations for situations or phenomena. This process often involves the use of analogies in developing possible explanations, also known as hypotheses.

The process of incorporating observations about a situation or phenomenon into a framework of prior knowledge, allowing one to propose possible explanations for it. This type of reasoning is necessary for the formulation of hypotheses using the scientific method.

1. The gradual and natural growth of land resulting from forces of nature, as in sediment deposition by a river or stream.
2. The incremental augmentation or accrual of something, such as interest on an investment.

Area measurement (square measure) used primarily in the United States. One (1) acre is equal to 43,560 square feet, 4,046.86 square meters, or 0.4047 hectares.

One (1) acre equals 43,560 square feet. One (1) acre equals ten (10) square chains. One (1) acre equals 160 square rods, poles, or perches. One (1) acre equals 4,840 square yards. One (1) acre equals 4,046.856 square meters. One (1) acre equals 0.4047 hectares. One (1) acre equals 0.0016 square miles or sections. One (1) acre equals 0.004 square kilometers. One (1) acre equals 0.0000434 townships. One (1) acre equals 1.183676 arpents. One (1) acre equals 4.0 roods.

Term describing the incorporation of ecological considerations into agricultural operations, with special emphasis on ecological and ecosystem sustainability.

Agricultural production that includes ecological and sustainability concerns in addition to economic and commodity values. Also known as sustainable agriculture, this set of farming methods often includes organic farming, locally-based food production, biological pest control, and unique marketing strategies. This type of system is sustainable in the sense that the social, economic, and ecological benefits can last for extended periods of time without degradation of natural resources.

See "Alternative agriculture"

The direction in which a slope faces, usually recorded as a bearing or azimuth.

See "Drainage basin".

The trunk of a tree.

The final step in the scientific method. After the experiment is conducted, the expected result is compared to the observed result, and a determination is made that the research hypothesis is either valid or invalid. If deemed invalid, a new or alternate hypothesis must be developed, and the scientific research process (scientific method) starts anew.

1. An easement designed to preserve and protect open space or important natural areas.
2. A legal agreement between a landowner and either a land trust or government entity that restricts land use and development on a parcel of real property so as to preserve and protect its conservation and natural resource values.

1. The process of moving from general evidence, principles, or nonobservable explanations to specific observable actions, consequences, or conclusions. 2. In the scientific method, deductive reasoning is used to determine the specific observations, measurements, or other data that will either support or contradict the research hypothesis.

1. The process of moving from general evidence, principles, or nonobservable explanations to specific observable actions, consequences, or conclusions. 2. In the scientific method, deductive reasoning is used to determine the specific observations, measurements, or other data that will either support or contradict the research hypothesis.

Diameter of a tree bole measured at a height of 4.5 feet. Usually recorded in inches (in) or centimeters (cm).

1. Variation in the physical characteristics of ecosystems across a landscape caused by variation in soil, slope, aspect, elevation, climate, and geology, and the accompanying variation in biotic communities. Also known as ecological or biological diversity.

The area of land drained by a river and its tributaries. Includes both surface runoff and groundwater flows.

The interface or transition zone between two ecosystems that differ in overall species composition, plant communities, structure, and function of key processes. These areas are often characterized by a higher degree of species diversity than either of the two adjoining ecosystems alone.

The process by which water from land, bodies of water, or other surfaces reverts to gaseous form and returns to the atmosphere.

1. The anticipated outcome of a scientific experiment according to the research hypothesis. 2. In the scientific method, the expected result is the outcome of the experiment if the research hypothesis is true.

The process used to test research hypotheses in the scientific method. In order to be useful in scientific inquiry, an experiment should be objective, with reliable and verifiable data. In addition, the results of the experiment must be reproducible by other scientists.

The historic natural or man-made fire patterns in a given area; the frequency, intensity, severity, and distribution of historic fires, especially wildfires.

Water that is stored beneath the earth's surface. This water sustains streamflows during times without precipitation, and is the primary source of water in most areas.

Groundwater that moves from one place to another depending on soil and geologic properties, natural boundaries that inhibit movement, and the temporal and spatial factors that govern the flow regime.