What is soil erosion?

Soil erosion refers to the process of the wearing away of the top layer of soil, which is crucial for agricultural productivity and ecosystem health. This phenomenon occurs due to various factors such as water, wind, and human activities that disturb the soil structure. When the soil is eroded, it can lead to a loss of nutrients, reduced fertility, and the degradation of land. This makes it a significant environmental concern as it can affect food production, increase sedimentation in waterways, and impact landscapes.

Understanding soil erosion is vital for implementing proper soil conservation practices, such as contour plowing, no-till farming, and the establishment of vegetative buffers to help stabilize soil and minimize erosion impacts.