There are many ways to protect soil, below are a few great ways to consider!
Use geo-textile materials: Use geo-textile materials or other methods like sodding or hydroseeding to establish permanent cover.
Reduce tillage: Avoid working wet soil and reduce traffic and tillage operations.
Rotate crops: Planting a variety of crops over multiple growing seasons improves soil health and nutrient content.
Cover crops: Plant annual grasses, small grains, legumes, and other vegetation to provide a temporary cover.
Mulch: Mulching helps reduce soil erosion.
Plant windbreaks: Plant windbreaks on the west, southwest, or northwest boundary of a field to reduce wind speed.
Use compost and animal manures: Composting food and garden waste returns nutrients to the soil.
Reduce chemical use: Use fewer chemical products like pesticides in gardens.
Reduce food waste: Reducing food waste prevents nutrients from ending up in landfills.
Protect forests: Planting more trees and protecting forests helps prevent soil erosion.
Use terracing and contour farming: These techniques help prevent soil erosion on steep slopes or in areas with intense rainfall.
Use crushed stone and wood chips: In areas where vegetation is hard to establish, use crushed stone and wood chips to help protect the soil.