23. Maintain Your Drainage System To Protect Surface
Water |
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Drainage
systems can improve production and protect surface water by preventing
excess water on the soil surface from moving as runoff, carrying sediment
and other contaminants into streams and lakes.
However, University of Illinois research has shown that there are
cases in which drainage systems can contribute to contamination
problems. Subsurface drainage systems can channel nitrate through
its drain tiles and directly into streams, rivers, and lakes.
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If
you hope to reap the economic and environmental benefits of your drainage
system, proper maintenance is essential. For subsurface systems, regularly
make sure outlet ditches are not blocked with sediment and inlet covers
are not sealed with debris. |
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If
tile is broken, replace it, and remove water-loving trees, such as
willow, elm, soft maple, and cottonwood from within 100 feet of the
drain. Check for the buildup of ochre, an iron oxide that may block
the drain. |
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With
surface drainage systems, regularly inspect the outlet channel and
ditches after each heavy rain and remove silt deposits or other obstructions.
Brushy types of vegetation, such as cattails, willows, and cottonwoods,
are a menace to surface ditches. Cut or spray them once or twice each
year as needed. |
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