Sometimes predicted, floods can also occur when ground water rises over time and there is no where else for it to go. When flooded, each farm will be damaged in relation to the nature of its operation. The short-term affect of the loss of crops is loss of income for flooded fields, and, if the producer usually saves the seed, the loss of seed for next year's crop, requiring an expense next season. In addition, forage crops and grasses in pasturelands may be killed, preventing the producer from efficiently and inexpensively feeding livestock. Livestock may be able to take care of themselves during a flood.
Large animals tend to do well, particularly if they are able to get to high ground.
Smaller animals such as pigs or poultry are more likely to be killed, especially if they are trapped, depending on the severity of the flood, forecasting a need for replacement costs. Expensive agricultural equipment such as combines, harvesters, and tractors are damaged with water, requiring repair and replacement. Buildings such as poultry houses or barns, equipment storage sheds, and silos are inundated with water, requiring the repair or replacement of the buildings and their contents. In addition to community infrastructure, farm infrastructure such as driveways, paddocks, fencing, and work areas are severely damaged in a flood, and will require repair. Soils are primary in all agriculture.