Which farming practice is used to address soil problems?

• A. Deforestation
• B. Conservation tillage
• C. Deep plowing with no cover crops
• D. Monoculture expansion

Answer: (B)

Farming practices that protect soil structure and fertility by reducing disturbance and keeping soil covered are used to solve soil problems. Conservation tillage does this by minimizing soil disruption and leaving crop residues on the surface. That protective layer helps prevent erosion from wind and water, improves water infiltration and moisture retention, and supports longer-term improvements in soil organic matter. These benefits directly address common soil problems like erosion, nutrient loss, and degradation of soil structure, making it an effective approach.

Deforestation would remove vegetation that protects the soil, leading to greater erosion and nutrient loss. Deep plowing with no cover crops disturbs and then leaves soil bare, often increasing erosion and breaking down soil structure. Expanding monoculture reduces biodiversity and tends to deplete soil nutrients more quickly, increasing vulnerability to pests and further soil degradation.