What is soil conservation?

Soil conservation is the collective efforts of groups or individuals to improve the quality of the soil and minimize erosion and other negative events. For example, soil that is eroding can be made healthier by planting plants and grass to keep it from washing away.

Soil conservation is generally accomplished with a variety of management techniques. Some of these including managing surface runoff, protecting exposed soil and protecting downstream watercourses from pollution and sedimentation. Soil conservation can ensure that soil is its most productive for the food supply and ensures that the habitats of area wildlife are maintained while protecting water from pollution.