What does erosion refer to in the context of agriculture?

In the context of agriculture, erosion refers specifically to the process of soil being worn away. Erosion occurs when elements such as water, wind, or ice remove soil particles from one location and deposit them elsewhere. This loss of soil can lead to significant agricultural challenges, including reduced soil fertility and diminished crop yields. Fertile topsoil, which contains essential nutrients, is particularly vulnerable to erosion, and when it is lost, it can take a long time for that soil to regenerate naturally. Understanding erosion is crucial for developing effective soil conservation practices and sustainable land management strategies to protect agricultural productivity.