Question

What is soil conservation? State a method of soil conservation in:
(i) Arid and semi-arid region
(ii) River valleys prone to flood

Answer 1

Hint: Soil is a composition of the following materials- soil organic matter, minerals, water,
gas, and living organisms. Soil minerals are further divided into clay, sand, and silt. Soil erosion is the loss of the uppermost deposit of the soil; therefore it is soil degradation. Soil conservation is necessary to undo the effects of soil erosion.

Complete Answer:
Soil conservation is the number of practices used to keep the soil from degrading. Since most creatures in the soil rest on biotic substances for their nutrition and energy, soil conservation calls for the giving back of the biotic substances to the soil on a regular basis. This biotic material is what offers the soil good form and water carrying capacity. It also encourages water infiltration, and guards the soil from erosion.
(i) Arid and semi-arid region: Mulching is a method of soil conservation where a layer or organic or inorganic matter is spread on top of the soil. This process keeps in check the moisture content of the soil and keeps it fertile.
(ii) River valleys prone to flood: Soil can be protected from erosion by building dams or barriers to keep in check the rivers which are prone to flooding. Planting trees is also a good method to conserve soil in flood prone areas.

Note: Some other methods of soil conservation used are contour ploughing, no till farming, crop rotation etc. The aim of soil conservation is to keep the soil from eroding and losing its fertility. The effects of soil erosion can lead to the total abandonment of an area, hence soil conservation is important.