Steep slopes in forests risk devastating soil erosion and runoff
In forests, using heavy machinery for logging can harm soil and water. Scientists studied how steepness affects water runoff and soil loss from compacted soil. They tested different slopes (5% to 40%) on a 2m2 plot during rainstorms over a year. Results showed: - More slope led to more runoff up to 25%, then it decreased. - Slopes of 25% were worst for runoff. - Sediment loss rose up to 30% slope, then fell at steeper slopes. Steeper slopes increase runoff and soil loss on compacted forest soils, affecting water resources.