What do you mean by contour ploughing?
Contour ploughing or contour farming is the farming practice of ploughing and/or planting across a slope following its levation contour lines. These contour lines create a water break which reduces the formation of rills and gullies during times of heavy water run-off; which is a major cause of soil erosion.
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What do you mean by contour ploughing?
Contour Ploughing
Contour ploughing is a farming practice that involves ploughing fields along the contour lines of the land to help prevent soil erosion. This technique is particularly beneficial on sloping land where water runoff can cause soil to be washed away, leading to decreased soil fertility and productivity.
Key Points:
- Prevents Soil Erosion: By ploughing along the contour lines, the soil is less likely to be eroded by water runoff, as the furrows act as barriers to slow down the flow of water.
- Improves Water Retention: Contour ploughing helps to increase water retention in the soil, as the furrows trap water and allow it to slowly infiltrate the ground rather than running off the surface.
- Enhances Soil Fertility: By reducing soil erosion and improving water retention, contour ploughing can help maintain soil fertility and productivity over time.
- Promotes Sustainable Agriculture: This technique is a sustainable farming practice that helps to conserve soil and water resources for future generations.
- Reduces Runoff Pollution: Contour ploughing also helps to reduce pollution from agricultural runoff, as it decreases the amount of sediment and nutrients that can be carried away by water.
Overall, contour ploughing is an effective and environmentally friendly farming practice that can help farmers improve soil health, conserve water, and protect the land from erosion.
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