Wet conditions: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

<p>Spring rains can come hard and fast as we have experienced during the last few weeks, causing substantial soil erosion when soils are most vulnerable because of extensive tillage that has led to degraded crop residues cover and lack of a crop canopy. The soil profiles in most of Iowa are now filled to capacity with water. Therefore, the intensity and amount of rain received has exceeded the soil's capacity to filter water and minimize surface runoff even in fields with the most adequate conservation practices.</p>