Clearing the land of vegetation actually worsens soil erosion, as plant roots help to anchor the soil and reduce water runoff. Without vegetation, the soil becomes more susceptible to erosion by wind and water.

Here's how the other options help prevent soil erosion:

A. Constructing ridges or planting across the slope – This technique (known as contour farming) helps reduce water runoff and soil erosion by directing water along the contours of the land.

B. Cultivating cover crops – Cover crops help protect the soil from erosion by reducing water runoff and providing ground cover.

C. Practicing strip farming – This involves alternating strips of crops with strips of fallow land or grass, which helps control erosion by reducing the impact of water on the soil.

E. Constructing terraces – Terracing reduces the speed of water flow on slopes, preventing soil from washing away.