Semiarid Rangeland Treatment and Surface Runoff

Abstract

Effects of pitting and rootplowing on surface runoff were determined on a desert shrub range in southeastern Arizona, and the time-dependent changes in the soil surface characteristics resulting from these practices were studied. Additional detention storage was provided by increased roughness in microtopography, thereby decreasing surface runoff when compared to the control. Rock and gravel were negatively correlated with surface runoff. Combining the two parameters showed a significant reduction in surface runoff. Increases in runoff were associated with exposed soil. Crown cover significantly reduced runoff. Litter was not significant in the reduction of runoff. Regulation of surface runoff is important for on-site rangeland improvements as well as reducing sediment yields.