Quick Answer. Neo-Malthusian theory holds that population growth is exponential and that human population growth can easily outstrip its food resources if not held in check with artificial birth control measures. It differs from traditional Malthusian theory in the proposed birth control solution.
Terrace farming is when farming is done on manmade terraces that have been built into slopes. When humans transform a slope into a series of flat surfaces, they form terraces. Crops are then grown on these flat surfaces rather than on the slope, preventing crops from sliding down the slope over time. The image below is of rice paddies grown on terraces. By building these terraces, water flows down and accumulates in each terrace. If the terraces did not exist, rainfall and water would flow from higher elevations down the hill/mountain, carrying important soil and nutrients with it. Building terraces prevents this from happening.
Desert farming generally relies on irrigation, as it is the easiest way to make a desert bloom. In California, the Imperial Valley is a good example of what can be done. Australia and the Horn of Africa are also places with interesting desert agriculture.rip irrigation is one way to reduce the overall water demand. Another is to grow crops that are acclimated to the desert, such as jojoba, date palms, and citrus. Native Americans of the Sonoran Desert have long practiced (and continue to practice) desert agriculture without irrigation.