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Submitted to: Environmental Management
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 9/7/2010 Publication Date: 5/6/2012 Citation: Zhang, X.J. 2012. Erosion by water and sediment control: Amendment techniques. Environmental Management. DOI:10.1081/E-EEM-120046351. Interpretive Summary: Abstract only. Technical Abstract: Soil erosion by water and wind are worldwide problems and serious threats to profitability and sustainability of agriculture. Soil amendments are effective means for controlling soil erosion and improving crop production. Soil amendments are materials added to soil to improve chemical, physical, and biological properties of the soil and to promote plant growth. Common soil amendments include lime, gypsum, synthetic polymer, manure, compost, municipal and industrial wastes, and mulches derived from plant materials. Soil amendments are generally used to neutralize soil acidity, improve nutrient cycling and availability, increase soil aggregation and soil structural stability, improve soil tilth, reduce surface seal formation, increase water infiltration (decrease runoff volume), reduce soil erodibility, protect soil surface from raindrop splash erosion, obstruct overland flow, and therefore reduce soil erosion by water. The specific benefits for erosion control are derived from both the increased soil’s resistance to erosion and the decreased erosive power of raindrop splash and flowing water shear. |
