How it works
Terraces break long slopes into shorter ones. They usually follow the contour. As water makes its way down a hill, terraces serve as small dams to intercept water and guide it to an outlet.
There are two basic types of terraces -- storage terraces and gradient terraces. Storage terraces collect water and store it until it can infiltrate into the ground or be released through a stable outlet.
Gradient terraces are designed as a channel to slow runoff water and carry it to a sable outlet like a grassed waterway.

How it helps

• Both water quality and soil quality are improved.
• Terraces with grass on front or backslopes can provide nesting habitat.

Dallas Soil and Water Conservation District
1918 Green, Suite 2 • Adel, IA 50003
Phone: 515-993-3413 • Fax: 515-993-4713

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