Question

Explain various methods of soil conservation.

Answer 1

Instructions:

1. Define soil conservation
2. Explain methods of soil conservation for Mountain slopes, plain areas, and coastal areas

Answer: Soil conservation is the prevention of the topmost layer of the soil from erosion or soil infertility caused by over-usage.

Methods of soil conservation can be used for two areas - Mountain slopes and plain areas. The following are listed below:

Contour barriers and terrace farming on mountain slopes to prevent soil erosion

Mountain slopes:

In contour barriers, stones, grass, and soil are used to build barriers along contours.

Broad flat steps or terraces are made on the steep slopes so that they reduce surface run-off and soil erosion. This is called terrace farming.

Plain areas:
In mulching, the bare land is covered with a layer of straw to help retain soil moisture
In intercropping, different crops are grown in alternate rows to protect the soil from rain wash.

Coastal areas:
In dry and coastal areas, soil erosion occurs due to wind. Shelterbelts are created by planting trees to control the force of the wind to protect soil cover.