Loss of these particles of this layer of soil reduces the productive abilities of the soil to grow crops. Soil erosion can be controlled through soil conservation measures. Unfortunately, Missouri has a very serious soil erosion problem. In fact, Missouri has the fourth highest rate of erosion in the United States. Agriculture is one of Missouri's most important industries and soil erosion is detrimental to the long-term future of agricultural production.
Soil erosion is serious for other reasons, too.
Losing topsoil causes environmental problems by filling rivers, lakes and streams with sediment. Soil erosion is a major cause of non-point source pollution which can contaminate community water supplies and degrade wildlife habitat. All living things depend on the soil for food. Everything we eat and most of what we wear come from the soil. Soil is a fragile natural resource.