Which practice is effective in mitigating soil erosion within forestry settings?

Contour planting and cover crops are effective practices for mitigating soil erosion in forestry settings due to their ability to enhance soil structure and reduce runoff. Contour planting involves planting along the contours of the land, which helps to slow down water movement across the slope. This technique reduces the velocity of water, allowing more time for it to infiltrate the soil rather than washing it away. Additionally, planting cover crops provides protective ground cover, which binds the soil together with roots and helps absorb excess rainfall. This combination of techniques effectively reduces soil erosion and maintains soil health in forested areas.

In contrast, selective logging may not directly address soil erosion issues as it primarily focuses on the careful removal of trees and can sometimes leave soil susceptible to erosion if not properly managed. Fertilizing with chemical nutrients does not inherently prevent erosion; rather, it is more geared toward enhancing growth and soil fertility. Regular burning of underbrush, while it can manage certain vegetation and pests, may expose soil surfaces and thus potentially increase erosion risks, especially on slopes.