Soil Conservation

Soil conservation improves and protects the soil resources.  The first step in conserving soil is to develop a plan for the land. Use realistic goals for yield, returns and tolerable soil loss. Look at alternatives to current cropping and tillage practices. An erosion control structure may have to place in the plan. Whatever the choices, a system must be developed that will work to satisfy production, economic and environmental concerns.

A grassed waterway is an effective means of controlling water flow across the surface and preventing erosion.

A variety of proven erosion control structures are available as part of an overall conservation farm plan. Erosion by water can be prevented by keeping fields covered with crops or residue.  Choosing the right combination of practices and structures requires the careful planning and adjustment of a cropland conservation system.

Soybeans emerging in last year's corn crop residue. Residue management and crop rotation are proven ways to conserve soil while minimizing labour, fuel and crop protection inputs. This requires the adoption of new cropping and tillage system.

Cropping across the slope or along the contour is an inexpensive and effective way to conserve soil.

Some soil conservation practices are simple and low-cost. Desirable organic matter levels in soil are key to good management and conservation. Farms with manure and forage-based crop rotations have all the resources at hand to maintain organic matter levels. Cover crops, green manure crops and crop residue can also build these levels.

Cover crops and green manure crops, such as red clover, protect the soil, add organic matter, suppress problem weed growth and control leaching of crop nutrients.

Refer to the Field Crop Production book for more information.

Best Management Practices: A First Look