Methods farmers use to protect water and soil

Buffer Strips

area near water with permanent vegetation (not planted for crops) to help reduce erosion and water pollution

Contour Farming

Growing crops across or perpendicular to a slope rather than up and down the slope

Irrigation Water Management

Helps control the volume and frequency of irrigation water applied to crops

Cover Crops

Crops that provide seasonal cover on cropland and reduce erosion

Manure Management

Keep animals’ waste (manure) contained and applied to soil accurately

Crop Protection Chemicals and Nutrients

New technology allows farmers to apply nutrients and crop-protection products in the correct amounts to reduce overuse