Glossary of terms

Wetlands and Carbon Sequestration

Global warming:
an increase in the earth’s atmospheric and oceanic temperatures widely predicted to occur due to an increase in the greenhouse effect resulting especially from pollution. (1)
Natural greenhouse effect:
natural accumulation of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide) which raises the global temperature 33’C warmer than if the solar energy was re-radiated back into space.
Enhanced greenhouse effect:
results from human activities which increase the concentration of naturally occurring greenhouse gases and leads to global warming and climate change.
Solar radiation:
is radiant energy emitted by the sun. (2)
Sequestration:
storage
Wetlands:
land or areas that are covered often intermittently with shallow water or have soil saturated with moisture. (1)
Anthropogenic:
of, relating to, or resulting from the influence of human beings on nature. (Anthropogenic emissions: man-made combustion of fossil fuels which result in emissions of greenhouse gases.) (1)
Decomposition:
to separate into constituent parts or elements or into simpler compounds. (1)
Riparian zone:
a transition zone between a wetland and the surrounding upland. The Riparian Zone is often referred to as the ribbon of life as if has many functions including: wildlife habitat, water filtering capabilities and erosion control.
Beneficial management practices:
“is the term used to describe a practice, or system of practices, designed to minimize the impact of agricultural activities on natural resources while at the same time maintain economic viability of the agricultural industry”(3)

Glossary References:

  1. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary (referenced August 22, 2006)
  2. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia (referenced August 22, 2006)
  3. PFRA (referenced September 27, 2006)

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