What is "tillage erosion"?

Tillage erosion refers to the process where soil is displaced or lost as a result of mechanical tillage practices. When soil is tilled, it becomes loose and more susceptible to movement by wind and water. This can lead to the erosion of the topsoil, which is often the most fertile layer, rich in organic matter and nutrients necessary for plant growth. Unlike other processes that might improve soil condition, tillage erosion actively depletes the soil layer, reducing its overall health and productivity. Understanding tillage erosion is crucial for effective soil management and conservation practices, as excessive tillage can exacerbate erosion and result in long-term degradation of soil quality.