What is Conservation of Soil?

Soil Conservation is the name given to a handful of techniques aimed at preserving the soil. Soil loss and loss of soil fertility can be traced back to a number of causes including over-use, erosion, salinization and chemical contamination. Unsustainable subsistence farming and the slash and burn clearing methods used in some less developed regions, can often cause deforestation, loss of soil nutrients, erosion on a massive scale and sometimes even complete desertification.

Soil erosion removes the top soil that is necessary for organic matter, nutrients, micro-organisms that are requires for plants to grow and shine. Soil conservation is one such step that protects the soil from being washed away. The soil then ends up in aquatic resources bringing in pesticides and fertilizers used on agricultural land. Healthy soil is important for plants to grow and flourish.

Ways of Protect of Soil:-

Forest Protection:- The natural forest cover in many areas has been decreased due to commercial activity. One of the purposes this cover provided was the protection of the soil. Businesses involved in building can conserve by ensuring these areas are protected.

Buffer Strips:- Soil erosion is a large problem that is being battled around the country. This is particularly an issue where there are natural bodies of water. Buffer strips come in handy for conservation efforts. They provide protection where stream banks exist. They can be created with grass, trees and shrubs.

Fewer Concrete Surfaces:- Soil requires an adequate amount of water in order to function properly. Lots of concrete surfaces, especially in residential areas make it difficult for water to get to the soil. Using paving stones for patios and gardens work to protect the soil. They are also a tool to prevent soil erosion in specific areas.

Terrace Planting:- This type of planting is done by maximizing the topography of the land. It benefits from the way the rain water flows naturally. This is a way to protect the soil from erosion. It is also a proven method to encourage growth from moist soil areas.

Plant Trees:- Simply planting trees is a good conservation method. As the tree grows, its roots become even more secure in the soil. This soil is protected in numerous ways because of the trees existence. Erosion is prevented from this planting process.

Water the Soil:- This is a simple process that provides a lot of benefits to the soil. Watering your soil along with plants and vegetables is important. This helps to not only nourish the soil but to protect it. Moist soil is not in danger of erosion due to wind activity.

Maintain pH:- The pH levels in the soil can be affected by a number of things. Pollutants and acid are just two examples in this category. Purchasing a soil tester is a good way to monitor your soil’s levels. This also allows you to learn what needs to be added to ensure healthy soil and conservation.

Indigenous Crops:- Farming is all about diversity but indigenous crops are important. These are native crop options that enhance the soil. Planting these is a way to ensure conservation efforts. They should be planted even when diverse crops are being planted, as well.

Reducing Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides:- Plants require soil nutrients such as nitrogen, calcium and phosphorous for growth and development. Also, crops come under attack from rodents, insects and bacteria, so farmers require pesticides to protect the plants. The use of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture, however, leads to other problems. Some raw materials can contaminate the soil.

Solid Waste Treatment:- Dumping solid waste such as domestic refuse, garbage and industrial materials on land increases the level of toxicity and hazardous substances in soil. Waste also alters the chemical and biological properties of soil such as its alkalinity levels. Through chemical treatment methods such as acid-base neutralization, municipalities can alter the pH level of solid waste before dumping it in landfills. Degrading insoluble waste by using methods such as adding chemicals or enzymes under a controlled environment before disposing of it also reduces land pollution.

Reduce the amount of plastic use:- Researchers fear that such plastic bags may never fully decompose; instead, they gradually just turn into smaller and smaller pieces of plastic. If you don’t like that approach, get yourself some recycled or biodegradable, compostable garbage bags.