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Estimation of soil erosion potential using Universal Soil Loss Equation

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Abstract

Sediment yield from a catchment can be simulated using lumped and distributed models. However, for field applications, a reliable and simple method is required. The Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) is an empirical procedure developed by Wischmeier and Smith in 1965 from statistical analysis of erosion data from a large number of plot studies under different conditions. This model enables the planners to locate the potential erosion zones in a watershed and to try alternative combinations of cropping and management practices for effecting erosion control within specific limits.

In the present study, USLE was used to identify the erosion potential zones of Hire Nadi catchment, in Yelberga taluk, Koppal District of Karnataka. In order to automize the estimation of USLE parameters, a geographical information system, Integrated Land and Water Information System (ILWIS), was used.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Hard Rock Regional Centre, National Institute of Hydrology, Hanuman Nagar, Belgaum -590001, Karnataka

    T Chandramohan & Dilip G Durbude

Authors
  1. T Chandramohan
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  2. Dilip G Durbude
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Chandramohan, T., Durbude, D.G. Estimation of soil erosion potential using Universal Soil Loss Equation. J Indian Soc Remote Sens 30, 181–190 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03000361

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03000361

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