Question

intensive farming, where fields are plowed in the same direction as slopes, can accelerate water runoff, leading to increased soil .

Explanation:

In intensive farming, when fields are plowed along slopes, water runoff is accelerated. This runoff carries away the topsoil, which is rich in nutrients and organic matter. The process of soil being removed by water (or wind) is called erosion. So the blank should be filled with "erosion" as it logically follows the context of water runoff leading to soil being washed away.

Answer:

erosion