New types of maps showing the land susceptibility to gully erosion

Abstract

The paper deals with assessment of gully erosion probability due to human impact on natural complexes. A new methodical approach is developed which is based on calculated ratios including a number of natural characteristics which control the rate of linear erosion; threshold values of gullies density and frequency have been calculated and maps are composed which show potential development of gullies within the limits of the Russian Plain. The paper is illustrated with a fragment of such a map (scale 1:2-5 mln) showing the utmost in potential gullies density in some central regions of the plain.