Farm drainage / The Principles, Processes, and Effects of Draining Land with Stones, Wood, Plows, and Open Ditches, and Especially with Tiles

A practical manual for farmers that combines scientific explanation and step-by-step guidance for removing excess water from agricultural land. It explains rainfall, evaporation, soil filtration, springs, and criteria for when drainage is advisable. It surveys methods — open ditches, stone and timber drains, ridge-and-furrow, plug and mole drains, and especially tile and pipe systems — and discusses direction, depth, spacing, outlets, junctions, and protections against silt and backflow. Chapters treat tools, tile-making machines, cost estimates, and tables of capacity and excavation, supported by numerous illustrations. The work aims to adapt established drainage techniques to local climates and to economize labor and materials.