Question

Discuss any five techniques of watershed management.

Answer 1

Five techniques of watershed management are:

1. Afforestation: Planting trees and vegetation reduces soil erosion, increases groundwater recharge, and stabilises the watershed, avoiding runoff and sedimentation.
2. Contour Ploughing: This technique involves ploughing following a slope's contour lines to reduce water runoff and soil erosion and improve water retention in agricultural areas.
3. Check Dams: Check dams are small barriers built across streams to slow down water flow, minimise soil erosion, recharge groundwater, and store water for local consumption during dry years.
4. Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater in ponds, tanks, or wells refills groundwater and makes water available for agricultural and household use.
5. Gully Plugging: Filling minor holes or gullies with materials such as stones or earth to restrict water runoff, prevent soil erosion, and improve groundwater recharge.