Soil conservation
A consequence of deforestation is typically large-scale erosion, loss of soil nutrients and sometimes total desertification.
Code 330 defines standard methods recommended by the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service.
[4] Contour plowing can increase crop yields from 10 to 50 percent, partially as a result of greater soil retention.
Tree, shrubs and ground-cover are effective perimeter treatment for soil erosion prevention, by impeding surface flows.
[6] Windbreaks are sufficiently dense rows of trees at the windward exposure of an agricultural field subject to wind erosion.
[7] Evergreen species provide year-round protection; however, as long as foliage is present in the seasons of bare soil surfaces, the effect of deciduous trees may be adequate.
They can revive damaged soil, minimize erosion, encourage plant growth, eliminate the use of nitrogen fertilizer or fungicide, produce above-average yields and protect crops during droughts or flooding.
[8] Critics argue that no-till and related methods are impractical and too expensive for many growers, partly because it requires new equipment.
Some farmers have contended that no-till complicates pest control, delays planting and that post-harvest residues, especially for corn, are hard to manage.
[8] The use of pesticides can contaminate the soil, and nearby vegetation and water sources for a long time.
[citation needed][14] The ions responsible for salination are: sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+) and chlorine (Cl−).
The best-known case of shallow saline water table capillary action occurred in Egypt after the 1970 construction of the Aswan Dam.
[citation needed] Planting species that can tolerate saline conditions can be used to lower water tables and thus reduce the rate of capillary and evaporative enrichment of surface salts.
By burrowing, the earthworm improves soil porosity, creating channels that enhance the processes of aeration and drainage.
[8] To allow plants full realization of their phytonutrient potential, active mineralization of the soil is sometimes undertaken.
