What is a primary disadvantage of conventional tillage practices?

The primary disadvantage of conventional tillage practices is that they can lead to increased soil erosion. This occurs because tillage disrupts the soil structure and reduces the protective cover of plants and residues on the soil surface. When the soil is tilled, it is more exposed to the elements, particularly wind and water, which can easily displace and carry away topsoil. Over time, this loss of topsoil can degrade soil quality, reduce fertility, and lead to problematic sedimentation in water bodies.

While it is true that conventional tillage may affect the survival rates of weed seeds as a factor, it does not supersede the more profound impact on soil erosion observed with these practices. Other choices, such as decreased crop yield or higher costs for farmers, may not be universal outcomes of conventional tillage. Many farmers use this method effectively, and yields can sometimes remain high. Thus, the most significant and widely recognized disadvantage of conventional tillage practices centers around the increased risk of soil erosion.