Technique of surface wash intensity calculation for arable slopes in the Central Chernozem Region

Abstract

A possibility is shown to define the intensity of presentday erosion processes on arable slopes by means of measurements of changes of humic horizon thickness during a certain time span; it is also possible to use a formula which is the product of specific soil wash and work of water flowing downslope. The formula includes also coefficients considering slope form and exposition, soil mecanical composition and degree of erosion, degree and type of soil salinization and soil protection against erosion. Present day erosion intensity is defined at arable slopes of the Central Chernozem Region, the value at the Middle Russian Upland appeared to be between 0,71 and 1,48 millimeters per year.