Use Contour Bunds for Soil and Water Conservation

Abstract

Contour bunds, also known as contour bundling or contour ridges are stone or earthen walls built across a slope to prevent runoff. Making furrows parallel to the contours ensures that rainfall and runoff are spread evenly over a field. The earthen bund is formed by excavating a channel and creating a small ridge on the downhill side. Thus, contour bunds resemble narrow channel terraces commonly referred to as “fanya chini” terraces. This technology is highly suitable for areas with unpredictable rains, especially drought-prone areas. They are commonly used in hilly or mountainous terrain to minimise soil erosion and enhance agricultural productivity.