Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

Which practice is most effective in reducing soil erosion?

1. Overgrazing

2. Conservation tillage

3. Monocropping

4. Excessive tillage

The correct answer is: Conservation tillage

Conservation tillage is the most effective practice in reducing soil erosion because it minimizes soil disturbance and helps maintain soil structure and health. By leaving crop residues on the surface, conservation tillage protects the soil from the erosive forces of wind and water. This practice also promotes moisture retention and enhances organic matter in the soil, contributing to better soil fertility. In contrast, other practices like overgrazing, monocropping, and excessive tillage can lead to increased erosion. Overgrazing can reduce plant cover, leaving soil vulnerable to erosion. Monocropping can deplete soil nutrients and increase the risk of erosion due to the lack of crop diversity that would typically provide ground cover. Excessive tillage disrupts soil structure, leading to a higher susceptibility to erosion by exposing bare soil. Therefore, conservation tillage stands out as a sustainable approach that effectively mitigates soil erosion risks.