4. Terrace

Terraces are the most widely practised soil erosion control measure around the world. The practice consists of earth embankments constructed across the steep slopes to intercept surface runoff and divert it at a non-erosive velocity to a safe outlet or store it to enhance soil infiltration. This chapter broadly categorises terraces into common (or normal) terraces and bench terraces. The chapter presents the design of common (or normal) terraces in terms of their spacing, grades, length, and cross-section. The design of bench terraces includes spacing, bench width, cross-section, and length, besides the volume of cut and fill or earthwork and area lost under them. The chapter also contains the terrace system planning, including its location, layout, and maintenance. The design procedures are demonstrated through solved examples.