Question

What is meant by contour farming?

Hint:

Contour farming is a vital practice for sustainable agriculture, especially in hilly areas. It helps prevent soil erosion while enhancing soil fertility and water conservation.

Answer 1

Overview:
Contour farming is an agricultural practice of planting crops along the contours of the land, following the natural contours of the terrain. This practice is primarily used to reduce soil erosion and water runoff, especially on sloped land. By planting crops along the contour lines, the soil is better protected, and water is allowed to seep into the ground rather than running off, which helps in conserving moisture and improving soil fertility.
Key Points:
1. Prevents Soil Erosion:
Contour farming helps in preventing soil erosion by slowing down the flow of water and encouraging water infiltration into the soil. This is particularly important in areas with steep slopes.
2. Improves Water Retention:
The practice helps in better water retention by creating natural barriers along the slope, which slows down water and allows it to permeate the soil. This is beneficial for crops, especially in dry regions.
3. Increases Crop Yield:
By controlling water runoff and improving soil quality, contour farming leads to better crop yields, especially in areas where traditional farming methods might struggle due to soil erosion.
4. Sustainable Agricultural Practice:
Contour farming is an eco-friendly, sustainable agricultural practice that reduces the dependency on chemical fertilizers and water irrigation systems.