New Model Predicts Soil Erosion "Hot Spots" for Sustainable Watershed Management.
The study developed a model called PCARES to predict soil erosion and runoff in a watershed. The model accurately predicted erosion "hot spots" in areas with steep slopes and little ground cover. Areas with thick crop cover and gentle slopes had less erosion. The model showed that land preparation without ground cover increased runoff and soil loss. Minimum tillage or zero tillage can help reduce erosion. Grassland and forest land uses had the lowest soil loss. Soil loss in cropland depends on soil and crop management. The model can help assess the impact of development in a watershed for sustainable resource management.