A dense turf does what to water infiltration?

• A. Decreases
• B. Increases
• C. Has no effect
• D. Eliminates

Answer: (B)

Dense turf boosts infiltration by protecting the soil surface and improving its structure. The plant canopy slows rainfall and reduces the force of droplets, which helps prevent soil crusting that can seal the surface and block water entry. At the same time, a dense turf promotes a strong root system and soil biota that create and maintain macropores and channels in the soil. Those pathways let water move downward more easily, so more water infiltrates rather than running off. In short, the combination of surface protection and better pore structure from a dense turf increases the rate and amount of water entering the soil.