Question

Suitable agronomic soil moisture conservation technique for dryland areas

• A. Contour farming
• B. Contour bunding
• C. Bench terracing
• D. Trenching

Hint:

- Agronomic Measures: Contour farming, strip cropping, mulching, dense sowing. (No structural building required)
- Mechanical Measures: Bunds, terraces, trenches, dams. (Requires earthmoving and construction)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Soil and water conservation practices in dryland agriculture are broadly classified into two categories:
Agronomic measures (vegetative and cultural practices)
Mechanical/Engineering measures (structural soil modifications)
Detailed Explanation:
Let us classify the options to find the correct agronomic technique:
- Contour Farming: This is an agronomic practice where plowing, planting, and cultivating are performed along contour lines of equal elevation.
This practice creates miniature barriers that slow down runoff water, allowing it more time to infiltrate the soil.
Because it does not require constructing physical structures, it is classified as an agronomic measure.
- Contour Bunding: This is a mechanical/engineering measure.
It involves constructing earthen embankments (bunds) along contour lines to intercept and store runoff water on steep slopes.
- Bench Terracing: This is a mechanical measure used on steep slopes (typically 16-33%).
It involves reshaping the slope into a series of flat platforms (benches) to prevent runoff and soil erosion.
- Trenching: This is another mechanical measure that involves digging trenches along contours to collect and store runoff water.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The suitable agronomic soil moisture conservation technique is contour farming.