Question

Mention any two measures for soil conservation.

Hint:

For soil conservation measures, think about the two main agents of erosion: wind and water. To fight wind erosion, plant trees (Afforestation, Shelter Belts). To fight water erosion on slopes, use techniques that slow down water flow (Contour Ploughing, Terrace Farming, building Check Dams).

Answer 1

Soil conservation refers to the methods and practices used to protect soil from erosion and degradation. Two important measures for soil conservation are:
\begin{enumerate} \item Afforestation and Planting Shelter Belts: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Afforestation: Planting trees on a large scale is one of the most effective ways to prevent soil erosion. The roots of trees bind the soil particles together, preventing them from being washed away by water or blown away by wind.} \\ \bullet & \text{Shelter Belts: In arid and coastal regions, planting rows of trees or shrubs (known as shelter belts or windbreaks) across the direction of the wind helps to reduce wind speed and protect the topsoil from wind erosion.} \\ \end{array}\] \item Contour Ploughing and Terrace Farming: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Contour Ploughing: This is the practice of ploughing along the contours of a hill slope instead of up and down. The furrows act like small dams, slowing down the flow of water and preventing the formation of gullies.} \\ \bullet & \text{Terrace Farming: On steep slopes, wide steps or terraces are cut to create flat land for cultivation. This slows down the surface runoff of water, preventing soil erosion and allowing water to percolate into the soil.} \\ \end{array}\] \end{enumerate}