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The Nature and Controlling Variables of the Water Erosion Process

Soil Conservationist Soil Conservation Service

ABSTRACT

It has been shown in the foregoing that the water erosion process is largely controlled by the following principal variables:

1. Soil erodibility

2. Climatic erosivity

3. Infiltration capacity

4. Surface storage capacity

5. Degree of slope

6. Length of slope

7. Cover protectivity

Obviously research into the fundamentals of the erosion process must consist principally of studies of these variables. Space is not available to discuss the various ways in which these studies may be carried out. It is fairly apparent, however, that each variable should be investigated singly and in various combinations. Furthermore, all possible methods of approach should be employed. In addition to long-term field studies at permanent experiment stations, full advantage should be taken of the possibilities of fully controlled laboratory and field experiments. It is especially important that easily measured indices be invented for each of the principal variables, and nation-wide surveys made to evaluate these indices in all of the important agricultural problem areas of the country. These evaluations will form a rational basis for the design of erosion control measures.

In the foregoing, it was not intended to infer that research into the fundamental nature of the erosion process constitutes a complete program of soil conservation research. Such a program would involve the study of:

1. The fundamentals of the process

2. Methods of erosion control

3. The reclamation of eroded soils

It is clear that only the first phase of a complete program has been here treated. Nevertheless, to repeat the statement made in the introduction, this phase is of first importance, for the rational control of any physical phenomenon requires a clear understanding of the fundamental factors involved.