Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Conservation tillage minimizes soil disturbance to prevent erosion and preserve organic matter, contrasting with traditional clean cultivation.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Edward H. Faulkner: Is recognized as a pioneer of conservation tillage.
- In 1943, he published the book "Plowman's Folly", which challenged the traditional practice of deep moldboard plowing. He argued that plowing disrupts natural soil structure, increases erosion, and reduces organic matter, laying the foundation for modern conservation and zero-tillage practices.
- While Jethro Tull is the father of tillage (proposing "Horse Hoeing Husbandry"), Faulkner championed reducing tillage intensity.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Edward H. Faulkner is considered a pioneer of conservation tillage, and his foundational book is "Plowman's Folly".