The article gives a general assessment of the existing methods of harvesting grain crops. It is noted that for the conditions of the steppe zone, separate harvesting should have an advantage over the direct method of harvesting. The existing disadvantages of the operation of serial roller harvesters used for separate harvesting are indicated. As a solution, it is proposed to use a harvester for separate harvesting of grain crops by the batch method. The general features and advantages of its application are described, the most suitable territories for its functioning are designated. The question of the expediency of developing its modifications for specific territorial and natural conditions is investigated. Positive aspects were noted in relation to agricultural landscapes and soil conservation when using a harvester for separate harvesting of grain crops by the batch method and its main modifications - a harvester with a device for forming high crop residues and a harvester for separate harvesting of grain crops by the batch method, creating a mulching layer. The features of the harvester designs for separate harvesting of grain crops by the batch method and its modifications are analyzed. The possibilities of preventing soil erosion and snow accumulation in winter to further increase the amount of soil moisture when using a harvester with a device for the formation of high crop residues are considered. The issue of achieving additional positive results from the work of the harvester for separate harvesting of grain crops by the batch method, which creates a mulching layer, is investigated. The essence of its technological process is explained, the question of the positive impact of the formed mulching layer as a means of retaining soil moisture, reducing the intensity of processes leading to soil erosion and the possibility of countering the freezing of the fertile layer in unfavorable winter periods is investigated and analyzed.