Contour trenching

Contour trenching (a.k.a., Continuous Contour Trench or CCT)[1] is an agricultural technique that can be easily applied in arid sub-Sahara areas to allow for water, and soil conservation, and to increase agricultural production.

Immediate advantages are the following: Trenches can be artificially dug along the contour lines, across the slope so that water flowing down the hill is retained by the trench, and is infiltrating the soil below.

Depending on the slope of the hill, the parallel trenches can be closer or further from one another.

The dimensions, and the format of the trench should correspond to the local climate and soil conditions.

The upside of the trench should be protected against erosion, by means of e.g. grass, shrubs, or fabric.

A deep continuous contour trench in Maharashtra , India
A contour trenchline in India