What farming method is typically practiced to reduce erosion on hillsides?

Contour farming is a method implemented to reduce erosion on hillsides by creating furrows or ridges that follow the contour lines of the land. This technique is effective because it helps to slow down water runoff during rainfall, allowing for more water absorption and reducing soil erosion. The orientation of the rows helps to create natural barriers that catch soil and prevent it from being washed away, which is especially important on sloped terrain where erosion can be particularly severe. By aligning farming practices with the landscape, contour farming maintains soil health and enhances water retention.

Monoculture refers to the practice of growing a single crop over a large area, which can lead to degradation of soil quality and increased vulnerability to pests, rather than preventing erosion. Crop rotation involves changing the type of crops grown in a particular area from one season to the next to maintain soil fertility, but it does not directly address the issue of erosion on slopes. Ranching focuses on livestock production and does not specifically target erosion control in the same way that contour farming does.