An appraisal on the progress of remote sensing applications in soil erosion mapping and monitoring

Abstract

Satellite remote sensing applications in soil erosion mapping and modelling has gathered considerable momentum in the last decade, globally. Most importantly, the latest advancements in remote sensing technology and the availability of this data in various resolutions and the immediate demand for up-to-date information on levels of soil loss, soil erosion mapping and modelling has received renewed attention, particularly to ensure that productive agricultural land remains intact to ensure food security. This work details an overview on the advancements of remote sensing in soil erosion research. The study also, for the first time highlights the strengths and limitations of satellite data in mapping and monitoring soil erosion at various scales. The mostly recommended remotely sensed data in soil erosion modelling were multispectral sensors, such as Landsat data imagery, while high spectral resolution information remained limited, mainly due to acquisition cost. Despite many efforts made to quantify and map the extent of soil erosion, focus has been restricted to local scale applications. There is therefore a need for a more detailed and extensive work to assess the spatial variability and extent of soil erosion at regional scales, if sustainable management and effective rehabilitation strategies are to be developed.