briefly describe ; 1. The wind erosion("definition, types, cause and it's control measures) 2.The gully erosion (concepts, causes classification it's development and impact) within introduction, conclusion and reference?
1. Wind erosion is the process of displacement and detachment of soil particles by the force of wind. It occurs in arid and semi-arid regions with sparse vegetation cover. There are three main types of wind erosion: saltation, suspension, and surface creep. Saltation is the movement of larger particles, suspension involves the transport of finer particles in the air, and surface creep is the rolling or sliding of particles along the ground.
The primary cause of wind erosion is the presence of loose, dry, and fine-grained soil that lacks adequate vegetation cover to protect it. Wind speed, direction, and frequency also play a role in the severity of erosion.
To control wind erosion, various measures can be implemented. These include afforestation or planting of windbreaks such as trees and shrubs to create barriers against wind, contour plowing or terracing to minimize erosion on slopes, and adoption of conservation tillage practices to preserve soil structure. Additionally, covering soil with mulch or applying chemical stabilizers can help prevent erosion during high wind events.
2. Gully erosion refers to the development of deep channels or gullies in the landscape due to the concentrated flow of water. It occurs when surface water runoff becomes highly concentrated, leading to the removal of large volumes of soil and the formation of deep channels.
Gully erosion can be caused by several factors, including intense rainfall events, prolonged or improper land use practices such as overgrazing or deforestation, and poor water management systems. The development of gullies can be classified into two types: headward erosion, where gullies gradually extend upstream, and bank erosion, where the sides of an existing channel erode.
The impact of gully erosion is significant. It leads to the loss of fertile soil, decreases land productivity, and alters the natural drainage patterns. Gully erosion can also result in sedimentation of water bodies, increasing the risk of flooding and water pollution.
To mitigate gully erosion, several measures can be taken. These include implementing proper land management practices like contour plowing, terracing, and reforestation to prevent excessive runoff and minimize soil erosion. Constructing check dams or retention ponds can also help control the flow of water and retain sediment, reducing the formation of gullies.
In conclusion, wind erosion and gully erosion are significant forms of soil degradation that pose a threat to agricultural productivity and environmental stability. Implementing appropriate control measures is crucial to prevent and reduce the impacts of erosion, ensuring the preservation of soil resources for future generations.
References:
1. McTainsh, G. (2001). Desertification and wind erosion in the rangelands. Geographical Research, 39(3), 279-289.
2. Boardman, J., & Favis-Mortlock, D. (2004). Soil erosion science: Reflections on the limitations of current approaches. Catena, 58(2), 77-94.
3. Poesen, J., & Nachtergaele, J. (2003). Impacts of Soil Erosion in Developing Countries: Introduction. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 97(1-3), 1-2.