Soil conservation strategies for cultivated and non-cultivated lands

 Cropping systems

Crops with the ability to develop a canopy quickly provide early protection to the soil. Interplanting of erosion-resistant crops like cowpea, soybean, etc. is also helpful.

Crop geometry

It is essential to manipulate the crop layout in the field in a manner that may prevent soil erosion. Closer spacing of rows across the slope can help in this regard.

Contour cultivation

It reduces the runoff to a large extent, thereby reducing the soil and nutrient losses.

Tillage

Low-intensity tillage favors the consolidation of soil through better structure, infiltration, and pore distribution. This imparts erosion resistance.

Grasses

Grasses perhaps the best friend of soil conservationists. A low and evenly distributed canopy and fibrous root system with much soil binding capacity make grasses highly effective in controlling soil erosion.

For non-cultivated lands

Contour bunds

It is a mechanical barrier built across the slope for safe diversion of excess runoff and retention of eroded soil.

Graded bunds

Small earthen bund with slight grade constructed across the slope for safe disposal of runoff. The purpose is to reduce the velocity of the runoff water

Bench terraces

Flatbed constructed on the hills across the slope. The height of the rise should not be more than 1 mand width depends on the degree of slope.

Half moon terrace

Semicircular bed of appropriate diameter recommended for fruit trees or other plantation crops in a steep slope.

Water harvesting ponds

Water harvesting structures can be dug out for retaining runoff water on a seasonal or perennial basis. These are generally constructed down the slope.

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