| Sumario: | The purpose of this study was the
estimation of current and potential water
erosion rates in Castellon Province (Spain)
using RUSLE3D (Revised Universal Soil
Loss Equation-3D) model with Geographical
Information System (GIS) support. RUSLE3D
uses a new methodology for topographic
factor estimation (LS factor) based on the
impact of flow convergence allowing better
assessment of sediment distribution detached
by water erosion. In RUSLE3D equation, the
effect that vegetation cover has on soil erosion
rate is reflected by the C factor. Potential
erosion indicates soil erosion rate without
considering C factor in RUSLE3D equation.
The results showed that 57% of estimated
current erosion does not exceed 10 t/ha.year
(low erosion). In the case of potential erosion
rates, 5% of the area of Castellon Province
does not exceed 10 t/ha.year but 55% exceed
200 t/ha.year. Based on these results, the
current vegetation cover of Castellon Province
is adequate but needs to be conserved to avoid
an increase in the current soil erosion rates as
shown by potential erosion rates.
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