A method and apparatus for controlling a trencher having a tractor that is propelled along terrain and a trenching implement adjustably mounted to the tractor at a rearward portion thereof with respect to movement of the tractor along the terrain includes monitoring movement of the tractor as it is propelled along terrain in order to survey the contour of the terrain and adjusting the position of the trenching implement with respect to the tractor as a function of the contour of the terrain in the vicinity of the trencher.