Everything in a watershed is connected to everything else-soils, plants, fish and wildlife. The amount of water slowed and stored by the soil and vegetation is a key element in the whole system. Compacted soils don't allow much water penetration. Instead of soaking in, the water runs off, increasing erosion, stripping away vegetation and soils that might otherwise store water. Non-compacted soil absorbs and retains water, releasing it slowly.
Plants protect soil from water and wind erosion, and help the soil store water.
However, compacted soil has less plant growth, which increases runoff even more. The rate of infiltration of water into soil gives an indication of the condition of the soil, its ability to control run off and support plant growth. To measure the absorption of water into soil, select two cans of the same size and diameter. Cut the bottoms out of each. Mark the out side of each can two inches from the top.