Assessing the Impact of Engineering Measures and Vegetation Restoration on Soil Erosion: A Case Study in Osmancık, Türkiye

Abstract

The prioritization of preventing soil loss in Türkiye’s watersheds has become a pressing concern for planners. Numerous mathematical models are presently utilized on a global scale for soil erosion prediction. One such model is the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE), commonly used to estimate average soil loss. Recently, there has been an increased emphasis on utilizing USLE/RUSLE in conjunction with Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, enabling grid-based analysis for predicting soil erosion and facilitating control measures. This study evaluates the effectiveness of erosion and flood control initiatives started in the 1970s within the Emine Creek watershed and its tributary rivers in Osmancık, Türkiye, utilizing RUSLE/GIS technologies. Two distinct maps illustrating the potential erosion risks were produced for two distinct temporal intervals, and a comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the alterations that transpired. The implementation of various measures such as terracing, afforestation, and rehabilitation in the watershed led to a notable prediction of decreasing soil loss in the watershed. From 1970 to 2020, the rate of estimated soil loss was reduced from 417 to 256 metric tons per hectare per year, demonstrating the effectiveness of soil conservation measures in a semi-arid and weakly vegetated area at reducing potential soil loss.