Why It Matters:
Extreme weather (floods, droughts, storms, heatwaves) is becoming more common. Checking your land’s risks helps protect your crops, animals, buildings – and your income.
STEP 1: CHECK YOUR LAND FOR WEATHER RISKS
Flood Risk:
☐ Are there any low-lying spots?
☐ Are there any spots with standing water?
☐ Do areas of standing water persist after rain?
☐ Are ditches or natural drainage pathways blocked?
Drought Risk:
☐ Does the soil frequently become cracked during dry seasons?
☐ Is plant growth consistently poor during dry periods?
Wind/Storm Risk:
☐ Are there broken tree branches present?
☐ Are any trees leaning significantly?
☐ Are fields or buildings particularly exposed to open areas?
Soil Erosion Risk:
☐ Is there evidence of soil being washed away after rainfall?
☐ Are there bare slopes on the property?
Soil test kits
☐ Have I used a soil test kit recently?
☐ Does the soil test indicate poor drainage?
☐ Does the soil test indicate poor soil structure?
☐ Does the soil test indicate low moisture retention?
Local maps or online tools
☐ Have I checked local flood risk maps?
☐ Have I checked local drought-prone area information?
☐ Have I consulted local weather service websites for weather risk information?
☐Have I talked to neighbors about past weather problems?
☐Have I consulted with local agricultural advisors about weather risks?
☐Have I talked to older farmers in the area about historical weather events?
Roofs:
☐ Is the roofing material in good condition and securely attached?
☐ Are there any loose or damaged shingles or tiles?
☐ Are gutters and downspouts clear of debris?
Trees in Groups:
☐ Are trees planted in close proximity stable and not at risk of falling on buildings or power lines?
☐ Have I had large or potentially unstable trees near structures inspected by an arborist?
☐ Are dead or diseased branches in grouped trees being pruned?
Cars Parked:
☐ Do I have designated areas for parking vehicles away from potential falling trees or flood zones?
☐ Do I have a plan to move vehicles to safer locations during severe weather warnings?
Animals Under Shelter:
☐ Do I have adequate and secure shelters for all animals (livestock, pets)?
☐ Are shelters located in areas unlikely to flood or be affected by falling debris?
☐ Are shelters well-maintained and structurally sound?
☐ Do I have a plan to provide sufficient food and water for animals during extended periods of shelter?
Influence of the Storm (General Preparedness):
☐ Do I monitor local weather forecasts and warnings regularly?
☐ Do I have an emergency kit with essential supplies (food, water, first aid, medications, flashlight, batteries)?
☐ Do I have a communication plan in case of power outages or emergencies?
☐ Do I know the locations of utility shut-offs (water, electricity, gas)?
☐ Do I have insurance coverage that addresses potential damage from extreme weather?
STEP 2: REINFORCE YOUR LAND
☐ Have I planted grass strips or cover crops on slopes to hold soil in place?
☐ Have I built or cleared ditches, swales, and bunds to guide excess water safely away?
☐ Did I make sure that the ditches, swales and bunds are functional, so that the water can be both dam up and be released?
☐ Did I make sure that I have control over the water flow, as water flowing too freely might pose a flood risk for you or your neighbors?
!! In most cases, the ditches should be natural – avoid concrete beds !!
☐ Have I planted trees or shrubs as windbreaks?
☐ Have I planted trees or shrubs to stabilize soil?
☐ Do I use mulch or cover crops to keep moisture in the soil?
☐ Do I harvest rainwater with tanks or ponds?
☐ Do I utilize natural depressions when possible to harvest rainwater?
☐ Have I considered switching to drought-resistant crop varieties?
☐ Have I utilized midfield planting strips?
☐ Have I checked and fixed any loose roofing?
☐ Have I checked and fixed any loose fencing?
☐ Have I planted windbreak rows (trees or hedges) around fields or buildings?
☐ Have I stored equipment safely before storms?
☐ Do I use crop rotation?
☐ Do I plant catch crops?
☐ Do I try not to overgraze?
☐ Do I avoid tilling when the soil is too wet or dry?
This protects soil health year-round.
NEED HELP?
Ask your local agricultural advisor for help with soil testing, erosion control, or applying for government support.
This checklist provides a structured way for landowners to assess their land’s vulnerability and identify potential actions to mitigate extreme weather risks. Remember to tailor the checklist to your specific land and local climate conditions.
