Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

Which of the following is an advantage of no-till farming?

1. Increases soil erosion

2. Improves soil structure

3. Requires more herbicides

4. Increases crop yield immediately

The correct answer is: Improves soil structure

Focusing on the benefits of no-till farming, one significant advantage is that it improves soil structure. No-till practices reduce soil disturbance, allowing for the natural processes of soil formation and health to thrive. This leads to the development of better soil aggregates, which enhances the soil's ability to retain moisture and nutrients, as well as improves aeration and root penetration. Furthermore, the preservation of soil structure helps prevent compaction and supports a diverse range of organisms that contribute to soil fertility. Healthy soil structure is crucial for nutrient cycling and supports the overall resilience of the ecosystem, leading to more sustainable farming practices over time. In contrast, the other options describe aspects that are either disadvantages of no-till farming or not associated with its primary benefits. For instance, increased soil erosion is typically a concern with conventional tillage rather than no-till. Similarly, no-till farming is generally associated with reduced herbicide use due to improved soil health, and while some farmers may see an increase in crop yield over time with no-till practice, the immediate yield increase is not guaranteed and can vary based on different factors including crop type and local conditions.