Dissolution

A chemical weathering process in which rocks and minerals are dissolved in water. The water molecules are positively charged on the hydrogen ions and negatively charged on the oxygen ion. The strong bonds which exist within a water molecule contributes to its ability to break apart, and bond with, many other molecules which may be present within the water solution, therefore dissolving the other molecule. Water is often referred to as the universal solvent due to its ability to dissolve many substances. This process can result in an increase in available plant nutrients, an increase in leached nutrients, as well as a change in soil pH.

  Ditch

An excavated U-shape cutting, with slightly angled sides, that is usually located around the perimeter of a field to help remove and transport water away from the field. Ditches might have mole drain runs or pipe drains emptying into them.

  Drain Line

The line in which a drainage pipe is installed or is to be installed.

  Drainage [1]

The removal of water from a soil, particularly due to the effect of gravity, as it makes its way through a soil profile.

  Drainage [2]

A natural or artificially installed system which is used to drain water from an area, in which case it is referred to as a Drainage System.

  Drainage Ditch

An open drainage channel which allows excess water to flow away from wet areas, or to transport excess water to other locations.

  Drainage Layer [1]

A layer of gravel which is situated either below a rootzone, which is often called a gravel or drainage raft.

  Drainage Layer [2]

A shallow layer of gravel laid beneath a drainage pipe during the installation of a piped drainage system.

  Drainage System

A method of improving the removal of water from a turf surface and soil profile. A system, often consisting of drainage pipes installed in accordance with a standard drainage layout, which allows for the removal of surface and sub-surface water from a turfgrass area. An Open Ditch Drainage System is also an appropriate system. The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 defines a drainage system as “a structure designed to receive rainwater except— (a) a public sewer, or (b) a natural watercourse.”

  Drainage Trench

A channel which has been cut into the ground and is backfilled with gravel and often including a pipe. There are different types of drainage trench: 1. Those which drain land over a defined area and are often form part of a standard drain system such as herringbone or grid. 2. An interceptor drainage trench, or French drain, which is typically located at the bottom of slopes or field perimeters to prevent lateral surface and sub-surface water entering a particular area.