Which practice helps stop erosion on a farm?

Which practice helps stop erosion on a farm?

• A. Deforestation
• B. Contour plowing
• C. Overgrazing
• D. Deep plowing

Answer: (B)

Controlling soil erosion on farms comes from practices that slow or block the flow of water so soil can stay put. Contour plowing does this by planting along the land’s natural curves. The rows act like small barriers that slow runoff, giving water time to infiltrate the soil instead of washing it away. This especially helps on slopes, where water would otherwise move quickly downhill and carry soil with it. By reducing erosion, contour plowing also helps maintain soil moisture and structure for crops.

Deforestation removes the protective cover of trees and roots, which normally slow and intercept rainfall; without it, more water runs off and soil erodes. Overgrazing reduces ground cover and compacts soil, exposing it to wind and water erosion. Deep plowing disturbs and disrupts soil structure, making the soil more vulnerable to erosion rather than protecting it. Contour plowing directly addresses runoff on sloped fields, making it the best choice among these options.