Reduce peak flow, runoff velocity, and soil erosion

The number of weather- or climate-related disasters costing more than $1 billion is increasing nationwide, and many of these disasters involve extreme precipitation or resulting floods. An increase of extreme precipitation events increases risk of damage to soils, crops, and infrastructure. Increases in runoff flow volume and velocity following severe precipitation events can lead to an increase in soil erosion, although the risk of soil erosion, nutrient runoff and other impacts on a specific site ultimately depend on local soil and landscape conditions. To reduce impacts of extreme precipitation events on soil and water resources, take actions to reduce their flashiness and slow the flow of water across the landscape. This approach builds on actions developed under Strategy 1 (Sustain fundamental functions of soil and water) in order to maintain and improve soil health and protect water quality in response to higher peak flows, runoff velocities, and soil erosion resulting from increasingly severe storm events. If the cost of these enhancements or risks of failure become prohibitive, actions to alter management, systems, or infrastructure may also be suitable.

Climate change increases overall climate variability. In addition, climate change is expected to increase the likelihood of extreme weather including extreme precipitation and storms, which will increasingly challenge agricultural activity. Further, extreme cold, snow, and other winter conditions will continue to persist—or even increase, such as with mid-latitude snow in some areas—for many decades into the future. Even as trends continue to emerge, responses will need to adjust appropriately to the changes in extreme weather. Adaptation actions that improve the capacity to adapt to enhanced weather variability, and extreme events in particular, will generally improve overall climate change preparedness.