Soil Conservation BMPs:
Land Preparation: Level to ensure proper drainage/even application of irrigation water; irrigated land
downslope of water source; furrows shaped to allow water to travel to the plant roots; simple technology
e.g. wooden A-frame to construct furrows, berms or mounds used to border flood plots of land; use of
contour and proper tillage practices
Compost and Mulching: Add important nutrients to soil, loosen soils, help conserve moisture, maintain or
improve plant and soil health, reduce soil erosion, suppress weed growth , compost example is add leaves or
straw (figure 1 below)
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPs) FOR SOIL CONSERVATION
Soil and Water Best Management Practices (BMPs) are recommended methods, structures, and
practices designed to prevent or reduce erosion and pollution, while increasing soil and water quality and
savings; all while maintaining economic returns. Many of these methods are already standard practices, known
to be both environmentally and economically sustainable.
SYED ZIA UL HASAN AND AJAY K JHA
Colorado State University Fort Collins, USA, July 2013
