Soil conservation

Crop Rotation

planting different crops on the same field in different years

Conservation Tillage

Reducing the number of times fields are plowed and leaving decaying plants

Terraces

Flat, step-like areas built on a steep hillside to prevent rainwater from running downhill

Contour Plowing

Crops are planted in curving rows that follow the contour of the hill. This slows runoff and reduces erosion.

Wind Breaks

Rows of trees/shrubs between fields to “break” or reduce the force of winds 

Cover Crops

Fields are planted year-round, even in seasons when crops dont grow. The plants cover the soil and hold it in place

Strip Cropping

Groundcover plants such as grasses are planted in strips between fields. The strips soak up rain and slow down runoff.