Winter melt water and spring rains may not drain adequately to allow early tilling and seeding especially on heavy soils. Wet soils are cooler and can delay crop germination and growth, reducing crop yields. Sporadic summer flooding can remain pooled too long in low spots, resulting in crop damage. In late summer and fall, soil may be too soft to permit heavy harvest equipment onto the land. It costs time and money to locate the plug and replace it with new pipe.
Farmers depend on a functional drainage system to remove excess field water.
Tree plantings added to farmland can also be designed as production investments. These recommendations have been established through field experience and are recognized by drainage contractors. If a tree cannot be removed or the drain rerouted, use continuous non-perforated pipe for a distance of 15 m on either side of the tree. Fruit trees are not included in these recommendations. However, a header drain should be located at the higher end of an orchard to intercept seepage water that might cause prolonged flow in lateral drains.