An update of the spatial and temporal variability of rainfall erosivity (R-factor) for the main agricultural production zones of Austria

Abstract

Rainfall erosivity is one of the key parameters influencing the degree of soil erosion. Due to the high spatiotemporal variability of rainfall erosivity and the influence of a changing climate it is crucial to use spatially well-distributed and temporally current rainfall data. Rainfall erosivity in Austria has been estimated by previous studies with varying rainfall data amounts. This study aimed to create an updated R-factor map for Austria and its main agricultural production zones based on a larger number of rainfall stations and a recent time series. As well as, compare R-factors from previous studies to identify differences in erosivity estimation. Rainfall data from 171 stations throughout Austria were gap-filled and corrected to improve data quality. Rainfall erosivity was calculated for 1995–2015 for the vegetation period and annually and used to establish two linear regressions describing rainfall erosivity as a function of mean rainfall amount. The regressions were applied to the 1 km2 daily rainfall grids from the SPARTACUS dataset to create the spatially distributed rainfall erosivity maps. Differences in the temporal and spatial distribution of rainfall erosivity, erosion index and erosivity density between the main agricultural production zones showed areas at risk of soil erosion and timing of vulnerability. The highest rainfall erosivities were found in the agriculturally important eastern regions of Austria during the summer months. Compared to previous studies, considerable differences in local R-factor estimation were found. The significantly larger number of rainfall stations and an updated time series increased the representativeness of rainfall erosivity estimation in Austria, which can contribute to a more precise soil erosion risk assessment.