Which of the following is a method of soil conservation?

Prepare for the Montana FFA Agronomy Test with detailed quizzes and explanatory questions. Enhance your understanding and get exam-ready with our structured study aids.

Contour plowing is a method of soil conservation that involves plowing and planting across the slope of the land, rather than up and down the slope. This technique helps to reduce soil erosion and runoff by creating furrows that follow the natural contours of the land, which can trap water and soil, thereby improving water retention and reducing the velocity of water during rainstorms. By aligning farming practices with the landscape's natural shape, contour plowing promotes sustainable land use and helps maintain soil health.

In contrast, practices like excessive irrigation, clear-cutting, and overgrazing lead to soil degradation, increasing erosion and compromising soil structure. Excessive irrigation can result in waterlogging, salinization, and nutrient leaching, while clear-cutting leads to loss of vegetation that holds soil in place, and overgrazing diminishes plant cover, exposing soil to erosion. Therefore, contour plowing stands out as a beneficial practice for conserving soil and promoting agricultural sustainability.

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