Comprehensive Assessment of Soil Erosion using USLE and Sustainable Management Strategies
Jasmal Choorappulakkal
University Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab 140 413, India.
Prashant Jaglan
University Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab 140 413, India.
Shilpa Kaushal
University Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab 140 413, India.
Shubham *
University Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab 140 413, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Continuous soil erosion from all parts of world through water and winds have become a severe concerns for soil scientists and geologists due to its adverse effect on soil productivity, water bodies siltation and deterioration of water quality. Therefore, it becomes most important to locate erosion-prone regions of any landscape and take the best measures to solve the issues of erosion. USLE and its modified models i.e. RUSLE (Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation) versions and MUSLE (Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation) are most commonly used for estimation of soil erosion. In India, soil erosion is a major serious concern which varies in its intensity depending on the country's different agro-climatic zones. USLE as well known model for evaluating soil deterioration is used in this review to provide an understanding of its parameters and how this approach is useful in soil erosion assessment. In addition, an overview of the current situation of erosion status in India which is being altered by regional variations like climate and land uses. Literature also dictates and discusses the potential advantages of better erosion control approaches, such as increased agricultural output and long-term land sustainability and looks at what might be possible in the future if the things get managed. The study also looks at crop selection and land use systems, emphasizing how crucial it is to choose crops that are suitable for the land vulnerability to erosion in order to prevent the further deterioration. Lastly, it emphasize on a thorough explanation of the USLE's parameters which are essential for precise erosion prediction including slope factors, soil erodibility, rainfall erosivity and conservation techniques. The study summarizes the knowledge on soil erosion in India and the necessity of customized, area-specific soil conservation plans to guarantee long-term agricultural outputs and sustainable agricultural goals.
Keywords: Soil erosion, sustainability goal, crop selection, USLE, RUSLE