Higher water-table levels and flooding risk under grain vs. livestock production system in the subhumid plains of the pampas

Abstract

Although the strong influence of vegetation shaping the hydrological cycle is increasingly recognized, the effects of land-use changes in very flat regions (i.e., hyperplains, regional slope Highlights •Deeper water-table levels were observed in dairy compared to grain production systems. •Croplands showed higher soil moisture and enhanced groundwater recharge. •Pastures exhibited higher transpiration rates and direct groundwater discharge. •We found a strong association between the plot water balance and regional flooding. •Hydrological modeling suggested higher flooding risks in grain production systems.