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Erosion by wind, water and gravity is a natural process that occurs in all terrestrial ecosystems. Generally, the soil formation rates in natural ecosystems equal or exceed the rate of soil loss through erosion. Farming, deforestation, and grazing livestock are all examples of human activity that upset this natural balance and accelerate the rate of soil loss through erosion. Considering the slow rate of soil formation and the importance of agricultural production for rural communities, the severity of this problem can not be understated. Below is a list of links related to the general, worldwide problem of soil erosion. Solving soil erosion problems, in Bolivia and elsewhere, is a monumental task. There are no simple, clear cut solutions. A mix of human ingenuity, hard work, sound research and grassroots organization are necessary if we are ever to see some improvements in the immediate future. Research in development has shown that large scale, top down projects, such as those funded by large development agencies, are rarely successful in easing the plight of the poor. Alternatives to such projects have focused on community participation in identifying, organizing, and implementing project goals and objectives. It is with this intent that development workers have created Rapid Rural Appraisal and Participatory Rural Appraisal.