The wearing away and removal of soil particles by running water, waves and currents, moving, ice or wind, resulting in severe land destruction and property damage. The gradual wearing away of arable lands will eventually result in marked decreases in production of crops generally occurring on a progressive basis. Removal of topsoil by water results in siltification of streams and rivers adversely affecting aquatic plants and wildlife.
All areas are susceptible to erosion in the State of Maine.
Farming and crop cultivation expose large areas to the effects of wind and water on a seasonal basis for planting and harvesting. Forest areas become vulnerable when all vegetation is removed from vast tracts by the lumbering industry or as a result of fire. Southern coastal areas have large primary and secondary dune systems which are vulnerable to tidal action and coastal storms. Property damages occur when development has been allowed to occur on these dunes. Agriculturists must be encouraged to plant cover crops, use contour planting techniques, and practice conservation tillage.