What is one of the effects of soil roughening?

Soil roughening is a landscape management technique that involves creating a textured surface on the soil, which can be achieved through various methods such as tilling or adding organic matter. One of the primary effects of soil roughening is the reduction of runoff velocity.

When the surface of the soil is roughened, it disrupts the flow of water across the surface. The irregularities and depressions trap water, allowing it to infiltrate the soil rather than moving quickly across the surface. This increased infiltration helps to minimize the speed at which water flows, reducing the potential for erosion and allowing for better absorption by the soil. As a result, this process is crucial in areas prone to stormwater runoff or erosion, helping to manage water movement effectively and promote soil health.

On the other hand, while soil roughening can indirectly influence factors such as pH, temperature, and biodiversity, these effects are generally not as direct or pronounced as the impact on runoff velocity. Therefore, emphasizing the reduction in runoff velocity as a key effect of soil roughening highlights its importance in erosion control and effective stormwater management practices.