Soil erosion is the displacement of the upper layer of soil, a form of soil degradation. This natural process is caused by wind, water, and human activity, which can be significantly accelerated by unsustainable farming practices and deforestation.
In Kenya, soil erosion is a major concern, particularly in areas with steep slopes, heavy rains, and deforested lands. It leads to reduced agricultural productivity, degraded land, and increased vulnerability to environmental challenges.
Examples:
- The impact of soil erosion can be observed in reduced crop yields, siltation of waterways, and lowered soil fertility.
- Practices such as cover cropping, maintaining vegetation buffers, and minimal tillage can significantly reduce soil erosion rates and preserve topsoil.
Addressing soil erosion involves implementing land management strategies that protect the soil, such as contour farming, terracing, and maintaining vegetation cover, which can prevent runoff, retain soil nutrients, and support sustainable land use.
Related Terms: Contour plowing, Conservation tillage, Erosion control, Land degradation, Sustainable land management
