kontuuriviljely

Kontuuriviljely, also known as contour farming, is an agricultural technique where rows of crops are planted along the natural contours of the land. This practice involves plowing and planting in horizontal lines that follow the shape of the hillsides, rather than planting in straight lines up and down the slope. The primary purpose of kontuuriviljely is to reduce soil erosion.

By planting across the slope, the crop rows act as small dams, trapping rainwater and preventing it from running downhill and carrying away valuable topsoil. This reduces the speed and erosive force of surface runoff. In addition to erosion control, kontuuriviljely can help conserve soil moisture by allowing water to infiltrate the soil more effectively.

This method is particularly beneficial in hilly or mountainous regions where steep slopes are common. It is often used in conjunction with other soil conservation practices, such as terracing or cover cropping, to further enhance its effectiveness. The implementation of kontuuriviljely requires careful planning and understanding of the land's topography to ensure the rows are laid out correctly and effectively. When done properly, it can contribute significantly to the long-term sustainability of agricultural lands.