Choose whether the given statement is true or false.

Forests protect the soil from erosion by covering it with a thick layer of vegetation, which holds the soil in place and keeps it from being washed away by rain or blown away by the wind. 

The given statement is true.

Forests play a vital role in protecting soil from erosion by providing a layer of vegetation that helps hold the soil in place. When rain falls on the forest floor, the leaves, branches, and roots of the plants and trees act as a natural barrier, absorbing and slowing down the water as it flows over the land. This allows the water to soak into the soil gradually, reducing the risk of erosion.

Furthermore, the roots of the trees and other vegetation help to stabilize the soil and prevent it from being washed away. As they grow, they bind the soil particles together, creating a network of interlocking roots that provide a strong foundation for the soil. This not only helps to prevent erosion but also improves the soil's ability to hold moisture and nutrients, which in turn supports the growth of more vegetation.

In addition to protecting the soil from erosion, forests also help to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events such as floods and landslides. The dense vegetation of a forest can absorb and retain large amounts of water, reducing the amount of runoff that flows over the land during heavy rainstorms.