Reduces amount of water intercepted by vegetation, increasing the amount that reaches the surface
What does dead plant material do in FORESTED AREAS?
Dead plant material on forest floor helps hold the water, allowing it to infiltrate the soil rather than run off. When forest cover and dead material is removed, the amount of infiltration that can take place decreases
Effect of construction of new buildings and roads?
Creates an impermeable layer over the land, preventing infiltration. Massively increases runoff, resulting in water passing through the system more rapidly and making FLOODING MORE LIKELY
