Hedging against erosion

AN old conservation practice has the potential to be a valuable tool in our arsenal of erosion control technology—using narrow strips of stiff, erect grass to trap sediment, build bioterraces, diffuse concentrated flows of runoff water, and protect downwind soils and crops from wind erosion. This erosion control practice is not new to the United States, but it seldom has been used in recent years. It has been far more extensively applied in the tropical countries. Reflections of international aid The United States spends millions of dollars annually attempting to transfer technology to developing countries to help them do a better job of conserving their soil and water resources. Experience has shown that decision-makers are more likely to adopt a practice when they have participated in the development of at least part of the underlying theory. One of the major impediments to acceptance of new ideas is the resistance of individuals who have invested in the status quo. Having recognized this impediment …