Question

(d) Give a geographical reason for each of the following:
(i) Shelter belts reduce soil erosion in arid areas.
(ii) Rural development will influence soil conservation.
(iii) Water harvesting aids in soil conservation.​

Answer 1

Answer:

Geographical reasons:

(i) Alluvial soil is extremely fertile because it is found to a depth of 500 m and rich in humus, lime and potash.

(ii) Soil conservation is required to protect the washing away of the fertile top soil. Draining away of the fertile top soil reduces the content of minerals and nutrients of the land, which may affect the agricultural production.

(iii) The roots of trees hold on to the soil and help in soil conservation. Deforestation exposes the soil to water and wind forces which lead to soil erosion.