Human activities increasing soil erosion

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8 Terms

1

Vegetation removal

Removes natural windbreak, protection against rain splash erosion, soil-binding roots, and reduces infiltration of water into the soil

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2

Why is vegetation important in reducing soil erosion?

  • Natural windbreak

  • Vegetation cover and leaf litter reduce rain splash erosion

  • Roots and humus bind soil together

  • Increase rate of infiltration of water

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3

Ploughing vulnerable soils

Breaks up soil structure, exposing soil particles to erosion by water or wind

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4

Overgrazing

Removal of vegetation faster than it can grow, and disturbance and root damage by hooves

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5

Ploughing, reducing soil organic matter, use of agrochemicals

Reduction of living organisms in the soil

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6

Why are soil biota important?

  • Detritivores and decomposers: break down DOM, releasing plant nutrients → increased vegetation cover

  • Decomposition: produces humus → increases adhesion between soil particles

  • Worms: aerate the soil, increasing soil drainage rates + infiltration capacity

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7

Use of heavy farm machinery, high livestock densities, reduced soil detritivores

Soil compaction → reduced infiltration rate → surface runoff more likely

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8

Cultivating steep slopes

Surface runoff water flows more rapidly down steeper slopes

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