What does excessive runoff potentially indicate in agricultural practices?

Excessive runoff in agricultural practices often signifies nutrient loss and raises various environmental concerns. When water runs off the surface of the soil rather than being absorbed, it can wash away not only water but also essential nutrients required for crop growth, such as nitrogen and phosphorus. This nutrient loss can contribute to the degradation of soil quality and lead to issues like water pollution, especially when those nutrients enter nearby waterways, potentially creating harmful algal blooms and disrupting aquatic ecosystems. Effective nutrient management practices are necessary to minimize runoff and maintain both crop productivity and environmental health. Thus, recognizing excessive runoff as a potential indicator of nutrient loss and associated environmental issues is crucial for sustainable agricultural practices.