Question

How does strip cultivation reduce soil erosion?

Answer 1

Strip cultivation reduces soil erosion by creating natural barriers that break the speed of water and trap moving soil.

1. Intercepts Water Runoff: It reduces water runoff by alternating rows of open crops (such as maize) with dense, close-growing crops (such as grasses or legumes). The dense crops operate as natural dams, slowing down fast-flowing rainwater.
2. Traps Displaced Soil: When soil is washed out of open crop rows, the neighbouring strips of heavy vegetation collect and filter the sediment before it is swept away.
3. Increases Water Absorption: Strip cultivation slows surface water, giving the soil more time to absorb rainwater and minimising the overall volume of erosive discharge.
4. Prevents Wind Erosion: Strip cultivation slows surface water, giving the soil more time to absorb rainwater and minimising the overall volume of erosive discharge.