What agricultural practice helps prevent soil erosion?

Cover crops are an important agricultural practice that helps prevent soil erosion. These crops are planted primarily to improve soil health, provide ground cover, and protect the soil from the physical forces of wind and water. When cover crops are established, their roots penetrate the soil, creating a network that binds soil particles together, reducing the risk of soil displacement. The foliage of cover crops also protects the soil surface, minimizing the impact of rainfall on bare soil, which can lead to erosion. Additionally, cover crops can increase organic matter in the soil, improve water retention, and enhance biodiversity, further contributing to soil stability and health.

In contrast, overly intensive tillage often leads to soil degradation and increased erosion by disrupting the soil structure and exposing loose soil to erosive forces. Excessive grazing can lead to over-trampling and the removal of plant cover, further increasing erosion risk. Monoculture planting, while it can be efficient for certain crops, lacks the diversity necessary to maintain soil health and can lead to erosion as there is less organic material and ground cover to protect the soil.