Flooding vs. non-flooding
Soil with good health is an effective defence against flooding. It acts like a sponge, absorbing the water and reducing surface runoff. This absorption capacity helps to prevent flooding, as the soil retains the rain water and slowly releases it into rivers and streams.
What happens during flooding
Soil plays a vital role in regulating water flow and absorption during flooding events. Healthy soils with good structure and organic matter content can absorb and retain water, reducing the risk of surface runoff and flooding. Compacted or degraded soils are less permeable and more prone to waterlogging, leading to increased surface runoff and flooding. Poor soil health can exacerbate flood risks and cause damage to crops, infrastructure, and communities. Soil erosion during flooding can result in the loss of topsoil, nutrients, and organic matter, leading to reduced fertility and productivity. Healthy soils with strong root systems help stabilize the soil structure and prevent erosion during flood events.
Soil health leads to non-flooding
In non-flooding scenarios, soil quality is essential for supporting plant growth, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem resilience. Healthy soils provide a favorable environment for plant roots to access water, nutrients, and oxygen, promoting plant growth and productivity. Soil acts as a reservoir for water and nutrients, storing and releasing them as needed by plants and microorganisms. Well-structured soils with good fertility support healthy plant growth and contribute to sustainable agriculture practices. Soil health influences the soil microbiome, including beneficial microorganisms that play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, disease suppression, and soil structure improvement. A diverse and thriving soil microbiome contributes to ecosystem resilience and sustainability.
Our management matters
Soil matters in both flooding and non-flooding scenarios due to its role in water regulation, erosion prevention, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem health. Investing in soil conservation, sustainable land management practices, and soil health improvement is essential for mitigating flood risks, enhancing agricultural productivity, and promoting environmental sustainability. Healthy soils are a valuable resource that supports food security, water management, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience in both natural and agricultural landscapes.