Effects of Soil Erosion by Farms on the Environment and Some Solutions
Traci Kramer
Harrisburg Area Community College

Table of Contents
Abstract……………………….. Pg 3
Introduction…………………. Pg 4
Causes………………………….. Pg 4-5
Land Affects…………………. Pg 5
Water Affects………………. Pg 5-6
Chemicals…………………….. Pg 6
Lancaster County…………. Pg 6
Prevention…………………… Pg 7
Damage Control…………… Pg 7
Conclusion……………………. Pg 7-8
References…………………… Pg 9

Abstract This paper will go in depth on soil erosion caused by farms. It will primarily look at how soil erosion from farms can affect the environment. The paper will then go in depth with seven supporting questions which include, what causes erosion, how erosion from runoff affects the land, how it affects …show more content…

Too many phosphates in your drinking water can cause problems such as kidney disease and osteoporosis. Not only are these chemicals coming off of these farms but so is the animal runoff and the chemicals that come along with that. They can cause e-coli and other bacterial infections that can very well be deadly. All of these chemicals can come from farm runoff and cause major health problems.
So how does all of this affect us? Well South Central PA was targeted as one of three spots that had unacceptable amounts of chemical from farm runoff. Out of 24 farms that were looked at in Lancaster County, only one farm was showed completely sustainable practices (Crable, 2010). Lancaster County is also the leader in sediment pollution in the Chesapeake Bay. The sediment comes from farm erosion and other sources. Lancaster County is one of the leaders in agriculture and contributes heavily to this pollution (Merrits, & Walter, 2003).
Prevention is the key with any type of pollution. Some think vertical farms are the answer but we are far from that solution. So we need to look at the here and now of the situation. Crop rotation is one answer. By using crop rotation you are saving the nutrients in the soil and allowing it to restore itself naturally. It also helps to keep out disease and increase crop yield. There is also different ways to plant crops to help. Terracing helps to retain water in crops and reduce soil erosion. Contour planting helps hold topsoil in place.