Soil erosion in mountainous regions can be checked by _______.

The correct answer is Terrace cultivation.

Key Points

• Terrace cultivation involves creating flat areas on mountain slopes to grow crops, which helps in reducing soil erosion.
• It prevents the rapid surface runoff of water, which minimizes soil loss by allowing water to infiltrate slowly.
• This agricultural practice is especially useful in hilly and mountainous regions where traditional farming is difficult.
• Terracing reduces the velocity of water flow and allows sediments to settle, thereby maintaining soil fertility.
• This method has been used for centuries in regions like Southeast Asia, the Andes, and the Mediterranean to sustainably cultivate crops.

Additional Information

• Contour Plowing
  • This is a practice of plowing along the contours of the land to reduce soil erosion.
  • It helps in conserving rainwater and reduces soil loss in hilly areas.
• Agroforestry
  • It involves integrating trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes, which helps stabilize the soil and reduce erosion.
  • This practice also enhances biodiversity and improves the microclimate.
• Cover Cropping
  • Planting cover crops like grasses or legumes can protect the soil from erosion during off-seasons.
  • These crops also add organic matter to the soil, improving its structure and fertility.
• Strip Cropping
  • Growing crops in alternating strips along the contour lines can reduce soil erosion.
  • This method helps trap soil and water, preventing them from being washed away.