Open AccessSoil Erosion in Humid Regions: A Review
Author(s) -
Holz Daniel J.,
Williard Karl W.J.,
Edwards Pamela J.,
Schoonover Jon E.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
journal of contemporary water research and education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1936-704X
pISSN - 1936-7031
DOI - 10.1111/j.1936-704x.2015.03187.x
Subject(s) - erosion , environmental science , hydrology (agriculture) , sediment , vegetation (pathology) , surface runoff , wepp , dryland salinity , water erosion , soil water , productivity , soil science , soil conservation , agriculture , soil biodiversity , geology , soil fertility , geography , ecology , geomorphology , geotechnical engineering , medicine , macroeconomics , pathology , economics , biology , archaeology
Soil erosion has significant implications for land productivity and surface water quality, as sediment is the leading water pollutant worldwide. Here, erosion processes are defined. The dominant factors influencing soil erosion in humid areas are reviewed, with an emphasis on the roles of precipitation, soil moisture, soil porosity, slope steepness and length, vegetation, and soil organisms. Erosion dynamics in forested watersheds are the focus with some examples from agricultural watersheds included as well. Lastly, best management practices for controlling surface erosion are discussed.