Degradation of Soil and Conservation Measures:

These are some of the most commonly used soil conservation technologies used in the agricultural sector. They are converting the vast, flat, boring areas of lands into cultivated fields suitable for crop production.

The major threats to soil erosion and depletion. Human beings and natural factors are responsible for degredation of soils.

Deforestation, overgrazing, overuse of chemical fertilisers or pesticides, rain water, landslides and floods are the factors which leads to soil degradation.

Soil conservation refers to the protection, efficient use of soil and preservation of soil resources. Mulching is the method in which the bare ground between plants is covered with a layer of organic matter like straw. It helps to retain soil moisture.

Contour barriers is the method in which stones, grass, soil are used to build barriers along contours. Trenches are made in front of them to collect water.

In Terrace farming, broad flat steps or terraces are made on the steep slopes, so that flat surfaces are available to grow crops. It reduces the surface runoff and soil erosion.

In intercropping, different crops are grown in alternate rows and are sown at different times to protect the soil from rain wash.

Contour ploughing is the process of ploughing parallel to the contours of a hill slope to form a natural barrier to stop water from flowing down the slope.

Shelter belts are the rows of trees planted to check the wind movements to protect soil cover.