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Energy agricultural production may take up to 60 million hectares in the United States, according to estimates. Biomass crop will most likely be grown in marginal farmland, which is often extremely erodible, due to economic concerns. Soil erosion must be addressed as a result of herbaceous as well as woody biomass agricultural crops. Even with continuous biomass extraction, perennial grasses offer year-round soil cover, preventing erosion. By increasing soil organic matter, soil structure, and soil water as well as nutrient-holding capacity, vigorous perennial herbaceous stands decrease water runoff and sediment loss and promote soil development processes. When compared to methods requiring more frequent or extensive tillage, minimum tillage management of row crops lowers erosion. Water erosion is reduced by woody biomass plantings because their roots and leaf litter improve water filtration, decrease water droplet effects, intercept rain or snow, as well as physically stabilize soil. When planted as shelterbelts, shelterbelts decrease wind erosion and enhance soil organic matter, soil structure, and soil moisture in their leeward zone, lowering soil erodibility. Increased erosion may accompany the harvesting of woody biomass plants. Clear-cutting in the forest, particularly on steep slopes, frequently leads in a significant increase in water erosion. As a consequence, even though it may result in increased harvesting costs, it is critical that hardwood biomass plantations be planned for rotational harvesting.
Bio Mass, Energy Production, Soil Erosion
