A dense turf density effect on water infiltration? Which is true?

A dense turf density effect on water infiltration? Which is true?

• A. Increases
• B. Decreases
• C. Has no effect
• D. Varies with conditions

Answer: (A)

Water infiltration into soil depends on soil structure and surface cover. A dense turf layer tends to increase infiltration because the canopy and thatch protect the soil from the impact of raindrops, reducing surface sealing and crust formation that would block water entry. The dense root system and organic matter from a thick turf improve soil porosity and create pathways (macropores) that water can move through more easily. As a result, once water reaches the soil, it infiltrates more readily than with sparser cover, especially on soils that aren’t severely compacted and under moderate rainfall. The effect can vary with soil type and rainfall intensity, but under typical turf conditions higher density promotes greater infiltration.