PDC Sustainable Land Use & Water Management 3

Question 1

Which zoning principle in permaculture most directly reduces water consumption for irrigation?

Accepted Answer

Locating water-intensive plants closest to water sources and in Zone 1

Answer

Placing water-intensive plants near water sources in Zone 1 minimizes transport distance and allows easy, frequent irrigation management.

Question 2

In designing a food forest on a sloped site, where should water-loving trees like willows or alders ideally be planted?

Accepted Answer

At the base of slopes or near seasonal water channels

Answer

Water-loving species perform best where water naturally accumulates—at slope bases and drainage channels—reducing irrigation needs.

Question 3

What is the main purpose of using a 'broad-base terrace' versus a swale on highly erodible slopes?

Accepted Answer

Broad-base terraces allow vehicle traffic and farming across the slope

Answer

Broad-base terraces have gentle slopes allowing machinery movement and cultivation, unlike swales which are on-contour and not designed for vehicle access.

Question 4

Which practice best describes 'land imprinting' as a soil and water restoration technique?

Accepted Answer

Using a toothed roller to create micro-catchments that trap seeds and rainfall

Answer

Land imprinting uses a textured roller to create small depressions that capture rainwater and seeds, accelerating revegetation of degraded land.

Question 5

A farm experiences compaction in vehicle trafficked areas. Which permaculture strategy best addresses this over the long term?

Accepted Answer

Establish permanent traffic lanes and plant deep-rooted perennials in no-traffic zones

Answer

Permanent lanes concentrate compaction while perennial deep-rooted plants in protected zones continuously break up and improve soil structure.

(PDC) Permaculture Design Certification Practice Test

(PDC) Permaculture Design Certification Practice Test

PDC Sustainable Land Use & Water Management 3