Drainage Facts

Increased yields – Research varies as to how much of an increase there is. A comprehensive twenty year study done in Canada showed a 29% average increase in corn yields on tiled vs. non-tiled land and a 26% increase in soybean yields. A ten years study done in Ohio showed a corn yield increase due to drainage of 40 bushels per acre.
Plant roots receive enough oxygen to mature properly
Soil surface temperatures are increased which helps seeds germinate
Plants roots are grown deeper into the soil so they can absorb more nutrients
Water damage to public roads is inhibited
Storm water runoff is absorbed and downstream flooding is reduced
The chances of water-borne diseases are reduced
Since the soil can absorb and store more rainfall, runoff from the soil surface is reduced. Thus, soil erosion is reduced
Since fields dry out more quickly with drainage, the number of days available for planting and harvesting crops is increased
Crop loss due to drowning is decreased
Land values are increased
Soil structure is improved. Soil needs to be drained to avoid soil compaction and structural damage, both of which reduce yields.
Soil bearing strength is increased. The bearing strength of soil depends on its water content which in turn is affected by the depth of the water table. Good soil drainage increases soil strength and reduces damage caused by farming operations.
Promotes energy-conserving efficient farming practices and facilitates no-till and conservation tillage methods
Reduced losses of sediments, phosphorus, ammonium-nitrogen, pesticides, micro-organisms and anti-biotics