Rill erosion is a type of soil erosion that occurs when water runoff creates small, narrow channels, or rills, on the surface of the land. This process often happens after heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt, where the flowing water removes soil particles, leading to the formation of these tiny grooves. Rill erosion can be particularly problematic in agricultural areas, as it can reduce soil fertility and disrupt crop growth. As rills deepen and widen over time, they can develop into larger channels, contributing to more severe forms of erosion, such as gully erosion. Effective management practices, such as planting cover crops or using contour farming, can help minimize rill erosion and protect the soil from further degradation.