How can contour farming help in erosion control?

Contour farming is an agricultural practice that involves plowing and planting across the slope of the land, following its natural contours rather than down its incline. This method is particularly effective for erosion control as it creates furrows that act like barriers, slowing down water runoff during rainfall events. By aligning the rows with the land's topography, contour farming helps to reduce the velocity of water flow, allowing more water to infiltrate the soil rather than washing away the topsoil. This design promotes water retention in the fields and minimizes soil erosion, ultimately leading to more sustainable land use practices.

The other choices, while potentially beneficial in other contexts, do not directly relate to the specific function of contour farming in controlling erosion. Higher yields can result from improved farming practices, but they are not the main purpose of contour farming. Increased water drainage is not a goal of contour farming; in fact, the practice aims to retain water, not necessarily drain it. Enhancing soil temperature may have benefits for plant growth, but it is not a primary mechanism through which contour farming addresses erosion issues.