3.1.2 Assessment of Soil Erosion Map
After elaborating the maps of the five aforementioned factors, namely rainfall aggressiveness (R), soil erodibility (K), topographic factor (LS), vegetative cover index (C), and erosion control practices factor (P), we applied the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) to derive the results. Using the empirical and spatialized RUSLE model, which provides an estimation of soil loss expressed in tons per hectare per year (t/ha/year), we obtained a range of soil loss values in the Galite archipelago. This range of values varies from 0 to 1568.8 (t/ha/year).
These results indicate the potential soil loss estimations in the studied region, taking into account factors such as rainfall aggressiveness, soil erodibility, topography, land management practices, and erosion control factors. Such information can be instrumental in assessing erosion risks and devising appropriate soil conservation measures to prevent excessive soil losses.
This analytical approach allows us to integrate various factors influencing soil erosion into a comprehensive model, providing insights into the spatial distribution and magnitude of potential soil loss across the Galite archipelago. By understanding these dynamics, stakeholders can prioritize areas at higher risk of erosion and implement targeted conservation strategies to mitigate soil loss effectively.
(Table3)
Table3: Soil Loss Values Summary in the Galite Archipelago