Level terrace or contour bunding involves the construction of bind passing through the points having same elevation ploughing and/or planting across a slope following its elevation contour lines.

Methods for Soil Conservation in Hilly Regions

In hilly regions, soil erosion is a major concern due to the steep slopes and heavy rainfall. To prevent soil erosion and conserve soil in these areas, certain methods are employed. Let's discuss the suitability of the given methods for soil conservation in hilly regions:

1. Terracing and Contour Bunding:
Terracing involves creating flat areas on the slopes by constructing horizontal steps or terraces. This method helps to slow down the flow of water and prevents soil erosion. Contour bunding, on the other hand, involves constructing barriers along the contour lines of the slopes to retain water and prevent erosion.

Both terracing and contour bunding are highly suitable for soil conservation in hilly regions. These methods effectively reduce the speed of water runoff, allowing it to infiltrate into the soil and reducing erosion. Moreover, the terraces and bunds help to retain moisture in the soil, promoting better plant growth.

2. Shifting Cultivation:
Shifting cultivation, also known as slash and burn agriculture, involves clearing a patch of land, burning the vegetation, and cultivating crops for a few years before moving to a new area. While this method may have been traditionally practiced in hilly regions, it is not suitable for soil conservation.

Shifting cultivation leads to deforestation, which exposes the soil to erosion. The burnt vegetation does not provide sufficient cover to protect the soil from heavy rainfall. Additionally, the short cultivation periods do not allow for the development of stable soil structure and fertility. Therefore, shifting cultivation is not a suitable method for soil conservation in hilly regions.

3. Contour Ploughing:
Contour ploughing involves ploughing along the contour lines of the slopes instead of ploughing up and down the slope. This method helps to reduce the speed of water runoff and prevent soil erosion.

Contour ploughing is suitable for soil conservation in hilly regions as it helps to slow down the flow of water and encourages water infiltration into the soil. By ploughing along the contour lines, the risk of soil erosion on steep slopes is minimized, and the soil structure remains intact.

Conclusion:
From the given methods, terracing and contour bunding (1) and contour ploughing (3) are suitable for soil conservation in hilly regions. These methods effectively control soil erosion, retain moisture, and promote better plant growth. Shifting cultivation (2) is not suitable as it leads to deforestation and soil degradation.