What does the term "no-till" farming primarily aim to reduce?

The term "no-till" farming primarily aims to reduce soil erosion. This agricultural practice involves leaving the soil undisturbed by avoiding traditional tillage methods. Instead of plowing and turning over the soil, no-till farming allows farmers to plant crops directly into the residue of previous crops.

This method helps maintain the integrity of the soil structure, reducing the loss of topsoil that can occur through erosion, especially during heavy rainfall or wind events. The presence of crop residue on the surface acts as a protective barrier, which helps retain moisture and enhances soil health by promoting organic matter. Additionally, this approach can improve water retention and reduce the need for irrigation, but the primary focus remains on preventing soil erosion and maintaining sustainable agriculture practices.