Author
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Nearing, Mark |
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HAIRSINE, P.B. - Commonwealth Scientific And Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) |
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Submitted to: Handbook of Erosion Modeling
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 10/1/2010 Publication Date: 2/1/2011 Citation: Nearing, M.A., Hairsine, P. 2011. The Future of Soil Erosion Modelling. In: Morgan, R.P. and M.A. Nearing (eds.). Handbook of Erosion Modelling. Wiley-Blackwell Publishers, Chichester, West Sussex, UK. p. 387-397. Interpretive Summary: A study of erosion requires one to think in terms of microseconds to understand the mechanics of impact of a single raindrop on a soil surface, while landscapes form over periods of thousands of years. These processes operate on scales of millimeters for single raindrops to mega-meters for continents. Erosion modeling thus covers quite a lot of ground. This chapter introduces the conceptual and mathematical frameworks used to formulate models of soil erosion and uses case studies to show how models are applied to a variety of purposes at a range of spatial and temporal scales. The aim is to provide land managers and others with the tools required to select a model appropriate to the type and scale of erosion problem, to show what users can expect in terms of accuracy of model predictions and to provide an appreciation of both the advantages and limitations of models. Problems covered include those arising from agriculture, the construction industry, pollution and climatic change and range in scale from farms to small and large catchments. The chapter will also be useful to students and research scientists as an up-to-date review of the state-of-art of erosion modeling and, through knowledge of how models are used in practice, in highlighting the gaps in knowledge that need to be filled in order to develop even better models. Technical Abstract: The movement of sediment and associated pollutants over the landscape and into water bodies is of increasing concern with respect to pollution control, prevention of muddy floods and environmental protection. In addition, the loss of soil on site has implications for declining agricultural productivity, loss of biodiversity and decreased amenity and landscape value. The fate of sediment and the conservation of soil are important issues for land managers and decision-makers. In developing appropriate policies and solutions, managers and researchers are making greater use of erosion models to characterize the processes of erosion and their interaction with the landscape. This chapter outlines a prospective analysis of the possibilities for a future of soil erosion modeling science and technology. |
