Soil erosion

Soil erosion is the detachment and transport of soil by water, wind, ice, gravity, or human activity. It removes fertile topsoil and reshapes land.

Water erosion: Soil detachment and transport by rainfall, runoff, streams, or waves. Raindrops and flowing water are major agents of soil loss.
Contour plowing: Plowing and planting along a slope’s contour lines rather than directly uphill or downhill. Contour furrows slow runoff and reduce erosion on cultivated slopes.
Topsoil: The upper, biologically active soil layer, typically richest in organic matter and nutrients. Erosion disproportionately removes the layer most valuable for plant growth.
Soil degradation: A decline in soil condition that reduces its capacity to support organisms and provide ecosystem services. Erosion is one pathway within the broader problem of soil degradation.
Wind erosion: The detachment and movement of soil particles by wind. Exposed, dry soil can be lifted and carried far from its source.
Terrace (agriculture): A level or gently sloped platform built into a hillside for cultivation. Terraces shorten slopes and intercept runoff before it gains erosive force.
Soil fertility: The capacity of soil to supply nutrients and other conditions needed for plant growth. Losing nutrient-rich soil can reduce crop productivity.
Soil compaction: The compression of soil that reduces pore space and restricts water movement and root growth. Compaction can increase runoff and erosion but is a distinct form of damage.
Mass wasting: The downslope movement of rock, soil, and debris under gravity. Gravity transports loosened soil in landslides and other slope failures.
Cover crop: A crop grown primarily to protect and improve soil between or alongside main crops. Living cover shields soil from raindrop impact and slows surface runoff.

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