Sierra and her family might face consequences such as deforestation, soil degradation, economic difficulties due to increased competition for land, and health issues related to the use of pesticides.
The potential consequences Sierra and her family might face due to an influx of new families requiring additional farming land are multifaceted and could include deforestation, soil degradation, and increased competition for resources. As forests are cleared for new farms, there could be loss of biodiversity, changes in the local climate, and disruption of water cycles. Societal responses to these changes can directly affect smallholder farmers who may need to adapt to new climate shocks and stressors with limited knowledge and resources. Moreover, there may be a struggle to maintain the health of the natural resource base as more land is converted for agriculture. This can lead to a spiraling cycle of debt and economic difficulties for Sierra's family, as they may face challenges in achieving food security and competing with larger, industrial farming entities. Additionally, Sierra's family could experience health issues as a result of increased use of pesticides, with detrimental effects on human health and the environment.
Complete question is:
What potential consequences might Sierra and her family face, living on a farm surrounded by forests far from the city, if the increasing influx of new families, including other farmers, necessitates additional land for farming in the area?