Conservation tillage is a farming method that preserves crop residue on fields to improve soil health and reduce erosion. The benefits include enhanced environmental conditions, such as reduced soil erosion, improved water quality, and conservation of resources, alongside practical advantages like lower costs and reduced soil compaction. Methods like no-till and minimum tillage optimize moisture and support crop growth while providing habitat for wildlife.

1. PRP

26. CONSERVATION
TILLAGE
Conservation-tillage farming: method of soil cultivation that
leaves the previous year's crop residue on fields before &
after planting the next crop
• No-till: involve planting crops directly into residue that either
hasn't been tilled at all
• Minimum tillage: some residue has been removed, but at
least 30 to 70% remains

27. NO TILL & MINIMUM
TILLAGE
Planting into corn
residue (no till)
Soybeans grown in striped
rows between corn residue
(minimum tillage)

28. ZERO TILLAGE

29. CONVENTIONAL TILLAGE

30. BENEFITS OF
CONSERVATION TILLAGE
Environmental benefits
• Reduces soil erosion by 60%-90% from rain & wind
• Improves soil and water quality by adding organic matter as
crop residue decomposes
• Conserves water by reducing evaporation
• Conserves energy due to fewer tractor trips
• Reduces air pollution from dust and diesel
• Crop residue provides food and cover for wildlife

31. BENEFITS OF
CONSERVATION TILLAGE
Practical benefits
• Fewer trips across the fields saves time and money (lowers
fuel, labor and machinery maintenance costs) and reduces
soil compaction that can reduce yields
• Optimizes soil moisture, enhancing crop growth in dry periods
or on droughty soils