How to Stop Farm Erosion

Plant strips of prairie grass in areas prone to erosion. According to Iowa State University agriculture and biosystems engineer Matt Helmers, prairie grass is better than commonly used cool-weather grasses, as the stiffer stems are able to withstand strong winds and winter storms. Grass seed should be planted when the risk of erosion is at its lowest, to prevent seeds from washing or blowing away.

Terrace grass strips by building land ridges on slopes and hills. Terraces are flat surfaces of land built into hillsides that prevent water erosion. The terraces catch runoff from steep inclines, preventing loss of soil sediment to ditches. Planting grass strips on terraces is more effective than planting on slopes as it controls both wind and water erosion.

Plant alfalfa in grass strips to better utilize your farmland. Make sure alfalfa strips are wide enough to drive a tractor and machinery through.

Plant two or more varieties of plants, grains or vegetables that do not compete for soil nutrients. For example, corn takes nitrogen out of the soil, while soybeans add nitrogen to the soil. Intercrop corn and soybeans to prevent erosion and keep the soil healthy. Plant soybeans between corn rows to prevent erosion. The soybean roots grasp the soil between the corn rows that would normally erode due to wind and rain.