Activities

(see additional information field)

Additional information

Soil erosion by water and wind removes fertile topsoil, clogs drainage systems and pollutes watercourses. Steepness of slopes can increase the risks of run-off and lighter soil textures (like sandy soils) easily run the risk of wind and water erosion. Even gathering livestock around feeding rings and at access points can increase the risk of soil erosion. Simple changes in practices – like the ones described in the guide “Protecting soils and income in Scotland” can help to reduce the occurrence and intensity of erosion events:



* Time your applications of manure to maximise nutrient use and increase topsoil stability. Organic inputs such as manure, straw, composted materials and non-agricultural bio-wastes may help to preserve soil organic matter and improve soil stability.



* Change seedbed cultivation to produce a coarser tilth. Fine seedbeds can increase erosion risk, destabilise soil structure and lead to the surface becoming sealed or capped. Consider sowing grass as part of a rotation to improve soil structural stability.



* Cultivate compacted bare land left after potato harvest and field grazed forage crops as soon as possible.



* Consider using minimum or reduced cultivation (min-till) techniques where suitable.



* Retain stubbles for as long as possible over the winter period or leave soils roughly ploughed.



* Where possible, tramlines should run across slopes.

http://www.gov.scot/resource/doc/47121/0020243.pdf