A Study of Measured vs Predicted Soil Loss and Steady State Infiltration Rates on a Semi-Arid Watershed

Abstract

Over time, scientists have developed erosion models that predict erosion rates based on certain measurable criteria. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) is a computerized model that uses slope steepness and length, ground cover, the inherent erodibility of the soil, rainfall intensity, and land use practices to predict soil loss on a per hectare basis. This study utilized data collected at the Walnut Gulch Experimental Watershed over a seven-year period to compare the predicted soil loss with actual soil loss. The input parameters for the model were all extracted from existing data collected on the Walnut Gulch Watershed. The predicted soil loss using RUSLE is 72% of the actual soil loss.