Answer: Here are three agricultural practices that can lead to increased soil erosion and how they create the problem:
Overgrazing: When livestock is allowed to graze on a piece of land for too long or in too large numbers, they can overgraze the vegetation and remove too much of the protective cover from the soil. This can leave the soil exposed and vulnerable to erosion from wind and water. Overgrazing can also lead to soil compaction, making it harder for water to infiltrate the soil and increasing the risk of runoff.
Deforestation: When forests are cleared for agriculture, the trees and other vegetation that once held the soil in place are removed. This can lead to soil erosion as rainwater and wind can easily wash or blow away the exposed topsoil. Without trees to absorb and slow down rainfall, water can also quickly run off the surface of the land, further increasing the risk of erosion.
Intensive tillage: Intensive tillage involves plowing and cultivating the soil in preparation for planting crops. While this can help to aerate and loosen the soil, it can also increase the risk of erosion. Tilling can break up soil aggregates, making it more vulnerable to erosion by wind and water. It can also expose more soil to the elements, increasing the risk of soil loss. Finally, tilling can also reduce organic matter in the soil, further weakening its structure and making it more susceptible to erosion.
Overall, these three agricultural practices can all lead to increased soil erosion by removing or damaging the protective cover of vegetation and topsoil that helps to hold soil in place. By understanding these risks, farmers and policymakers can take steps to mitigate erosion and promote more sustainable land use practices.
Step-by-step explanation: