Contour Strip Cropping#
Definition
Growing alternating crops in equal width strips along the contour of a sloping landscape.
How it works: When water runs downhill it flows along the steepest path. As water keeps flowing along the steepest path on the slope, it picks up sediment, soil, and fertilizer. You can prevent erosion in your field, and reduce the intensity of floods, by slowing that water down. Contour strip cropping puts alternating barriers perpendicular to the flowing water, so that the water has to slow down. The water can’t build up momentum because there’s always something different in its way.
Benefits |
Drawbacks |
|---|---|
Effective way to slow erosion |
Requires new planting patterns and planning |
No new infrastructure required |
May require new equipment |
Increases water infiltration |
Strips cannot be larger than 90 feet wide |
GPS technology makes farming along contours easy |
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Changes are temporary, and easily removed |
Get help
You don’t have to do this on your own! Your soil and water conservation office is here to help. If you want help setting and surveying in contour strips, contact us! 608-637-5480