Afforestation in China Reduces Soil Erosion and Surface Runoff Dramatically
Vegetation types in the Nverzhai small basin in China were studied to see how they affect soil erosion and runoff. Different vegetation covers were monitored from 2007 to 2018, with the wettest year being 2012. After 2013, surface runoff and sediment yield decreased due to afforestation efforts. Sloping farmland had the highest runoff and sediment content, while broad-leaved trees had the lowest. Rainfall was found to have a strong positive correlation with runoff and sediment yield. This suggests that using more efficient vegetation cover can help limit the impact of climate change. Broad-leaved trees are recommended for controlling soil erosion and reducing surface runoff.