Primary tillage often inverts the surface soil and buries most of the plant residues. These are often the first operations done after harvesting a crop. Secondary tillage implements disturb less soil and bury less residue. Return to top For all the good reasons we till the soil, sometimes there are negative side effects. If the soil surface is left bare and uncovered, it is subject to erosion from wind and water.
Erosion is a serious problem because topsoil is lost.
Topsoil has more organic matter and nutrient holding capacity. So losing topsoil decreases soil productivity. Management systems that allow unchecked erosion are not sustainable. Newer management systems use less tillage and leave more residues on the surface. More farmers use these practices every year.