Guest blog from Dr David Tompkins, Chair of our Professional Practice and Development Committee (PPDC)
Driving back through the Lincolnshire Wolds in July after months of dry weather was an interesting experience. It was raining – moderately – but there was a surprising quantity of standing water on the roads, making for hazardous conditions and prompting thoughts about why this could possibly be the case when surrounding farmland was parched. No doubt sub-optimal maintenance of roadside drainage played its part – but poor soil health will also have been a contributing factor, and one that might not be immediately obvious in a landscape where crops and grassland appear to be in good heart.
Healthy soils are essential for preventing flash flooding after intense rainfall. Well-structured soils—those porous enough to allow water drainage and root penetration—act as natural flood management infrastructure [1]. Poorly managed or compacted soils hinder water infiltration, leading to increased surface runoff and heightened flood risk. By contrast, healthy soils slow the flow of water off agricultural land, reducing erosion and pollution of watercourses. This dual benefit of improved productivity and flood mitigation underscores the importance of soil health in UK land management and climate adaptation strategies [1] [2].
Healthy soils also play a vital role in enhancing resilience to drought by retaining moisture and supporting plant growth. Organic matter levels are key to soils’ infiltration and water holding capacities, providing resilience during extreme weather events like droughts [3]. These moisture retention characteristics can also reduce the need for irrigation, relieving pressure on groundwater supplies, as well as helping to maintain river flows and aquatic ecosystems. Focussing on soil health with practices such as reduced tillage and use of organic amendments can also improve long-term agricultural productivity [3].
Next time you find yourself in the countryside during a downpour – pause at a field gate and see what’s happening to the water.
References
[1] Rewarding farmers for looking after their soil could tackle flooding …
