The primary water conservation technique is the creation of on-contour swales. On-contour swales are shallow trenches dug along the natural contour lines of the land. Instead of allowing rainwater to run downhill and carry away soil, the trench slows the water, collects it, and gives it time to soak into the ground. The loose soil removed from the trench is placed just below it, forming a long, gently shaped mound called a berm. This berm helps hold moisture, reduce erosion, and create a fertile planting area. Over time, the swale becomes a living system where water, soil, plants, and microorganisms support each other. After the swales are created, nitrogen-fixing plants are often planted first to improve soil fertility. Grasses such as Vetiver can also be planted to stabilize the trench and berm with their deep roots. As organic matter builds up and the soil becomes richer, food-producing trees, native species, or other crops can be planted. In this way, on-contour swales help restore degraded land by increasing water absorption, improving soil health, reducing erosion, and creating productive conditions for agroforestry, natural regeneration, and long-term ecosystem restoration.