Terracing is a method of landscaping or farming that involves cutting a sloped plane into a series of successively receding flat surfaces or platforms, which resemble steps). The purpose of terracing is to make farming more effective, especially on hilly or mountainous terrain. Terraced fields decrease both erosion and surface runoff, and may be used to support growing crops that require irrigation, such as rice). There are two types of terracing: graded terracing and level terracing. Graded terracing may have either constant or variable grades along its length, while level terraces follow a contour line and are best suited for gentle slopes.
Terracing is also used for soil conservation, particularly to prevent rainfall runoff on sloping land from accumulating and causing serious erosion. Terraces consist of ridges and channels constructed across-the-slope, which reduce both the amount and velocity of water moving across the soil surface. Terracing helps retain soil cover and fertility since water flows do not wash off the topsoil and nutrients. Water is either collected in channels or runs under the surface via outlets and pipes, which helps distribute the amount of water more or less evenly, not just at the foot of the hill.
Overall, terracing is a useful technique for farming and soil conservation, especially in areas with hilly or mountainous terrain.
