Terraces in Loess Plateau Reduce Runoff, Enhance Ecological Flow Security.
The study analyzed how building terraces in the Jinghe watershed in the Loess Plateau region affects river runoff and ecological base flow. By using a special model, the researchers found that increasing terrace area can reduce annual runoff and improve the security of ecological base flow. Terraces can significantly decrease runoff by up to 4.25×104 m3/(km2·a) and help regulate floods. The effects of terraces on ecological base flow vary depending on the season, with the most impact seen in the wet season. Overall, building more terraces is a good way to manage runoff in both wet and dry seasons and ensure ecological base flow is maintained.