Soil and water conservation in terraced and non‐terraced cultivations: an extensive comparison of 50 vineyards

Understanding the soil and water conservation (SWC) impact of steep-slope agricultural practices (e.g. terraces) has arguably never been more relevant than today, in face widespread intensifying rainfall conditions. In Italy, a diverse mosaic terraced non-terraced cultivation systems have historically developed from local traditions recently introduction machinery. Previous studies suggested that each type vineyard configuration is characterised by specific set degradation patterns. However, an extensive analysis SWC impacts different configurations missing, while this crucial for providing robust guidelines future-proof viticulture. Here, we provide unique comparison 50 vineyards, consisting 10 sites 5 distinct practices: slope-wise (SC), contour (CC), terracing (CT), broad-base (BT) oblique (OT). A big-data approach physical erosion modelling based on high-resolution LiDAR data performed, four predefined indicators are systematically analysed statistically quantified. Regular (CT) ranked best across all indicators, reflecting good combination flow interception homogeneous distribution runoff sediment under intense The least SWC-effective (SC, CC, OT) were related to vineyards optimised trafficability access roads or uninterrupted inter-row paths, which created high upstream-downstream connectivity thus prone accumulation. novel large-scale study offers rainstorms, becoming increasingly sustainable future management such landscapes.