Soil Quality

... key to absorbing and infiltrating rainfall

Soil is an important but often overlooked component of water management. Soil quality refers to the capacity of soil to perform its functions. Soil plays an important role in regulating runoff of storm water and in supporting trees, shrubs, lawns, and gardens. Urban activities, such as construction grading, often result in erosion, sedimentation, and soil compaction. Management practices are often needed to restore soil quality after development.

• Soil Quality and Construction Activity
  • Erosion
  • Compaction
  • Permitting
• Soil Components
• Restoring Soil Quality
• Soil Quality Illustration
• More Information on Soil Quality and Best Management Practices

A healthy topsoil has high organic matter content with 50 percent pore space in the soil profile. High organic matter content allows water to be absorbed and infiltrated.

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Last Modified: 07/05/2007