By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania has experienced substantial rainfall this summer, with western areas receiving particularly high amounts.
During the 30 days leading up to September 22, 2026, Erie recorded 9.57 inches of precipitation, while several other western locations received more than 6 inches. By comparison, the state typically receives about 4 inches of precipitation per month, according to Sjoerd Willem Duiker, professor of soil management at Penn State Extension.
Recent flooding demonstrates why rainfall intensity and soil conditions matter. Northern Centre County received more than 4 inches of rain in a single day on September 2 and 3, 2026, prompting county commissioners to issue an emergency declaration.
Although monthly and regional rainfall totals provide useful information, intense, localized storms can create some of the most serious flooding and property damage.
Farmers manage hundreds of thousands of acres across Pennsylvania, making agricultural soil management an important part of flood mitigation.
When soil can absorb more rainfall, less water runs rapidly across the surface, while additional moisture can enter the ground and be released gradually through groundwater pathways.
Duiker recommends several practices to improve infiltration. Maintaining soil cover is fundamental because uncovered soil can be damaged by heavy raindrops, which break apart soil aggregates and create surface sealing. Farmers can maintain cover through no-till systems, crop residue, cover crops, and perennial crops in rotations.
Protecting large, connected soil pores, known as macropores, can also improve water movement into the soil. Deep-rooted crops such as alfalfa and tillage radish can create pathways for water, while minimizing tillage helps preserve existing pores.
Encouraging earthworms, including nightcrawlers, can further support infiltration because their permanent burrows extend deep into the soil.
Building soil organic matter and improving aggregation are additional strategies. Sod and diverse rotations can strengthen soil structure, while compost and manure can add organic material.
Keeping living roots in the soil for more of the year through cover crops and diversified rotations also supports soil health.
Reducing tillage and preventing compaction are equally important. Heavy equipment operating on wet soils can destroy soil structure and close pores, limiting infiltration.
Management-intensive grazing can contribute as well by maintaining at least 3 inches of pasture stubble, allowing adequate rest between grazing periods and maintaining diverse plant communities.
By improving infiltration across farmland, Pennsylvania farmers can help reduce runoff and contribute to broader efforts to limit flood impacts.
FAQs
- Why has flooding been a concern in Pennsylvania?
Heavy and intense rainfall events have increased runoff and caused localized flooding.
- How does soil cover reduce runoff?
Soil cover protects the surface from raindrop impact and helps maintain infiltration capacity.
- Which crops can help improve soil macroporosity?
Deep-rooted crops such as alfalfa and tillage radish can create pathways for water movement.
- How does soil compaction affect infiltration?
Compaction closes soil pores and reduces the amount of rainfall that can enter the ground.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-kotenko-a
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, General