Abstract
Abstract. The investigation in the catchment of the Mulde (51°0'55" N, 13°15'54" E Saxony, Germany) researches the effect of afforestation measures on the soil hydraulic properties. The concept of a "false chronosequence" was used to quantify the time-dependent dynamical character of the forest impact. Four adjacent plots were identified at a test location with comparable pedological start conditions and a set of tree stands of different age: (1) arable field (initial state); (2) 6-year-old afforestation; (3) 50-year-old afforestation; (4) ancient natural forest ("target" stocking). Water retention curves and unsaturated conductivities were analysed in the lab. In the field, the undisturbed infiltration capacities were measured quantitatively (hood infiltrometer) and qualitatively (brilliant blue tracer). Pronounced differences between all 4 plots were detected. The afforestation causes an increased infiltration and soil water retention potential. Especially the topsoil layers showed a distinct increase in conductivity and portion of coarse/middle pores. The influence of these changes on rainfall-runoff calculations at the test location was analysed in this study.
Highlights
The European Flood-Directive (EC 2007) points out the need of flood risk maps. Based on these maps flood risk management plans will be prepared focusing on prevention, protection, and preparedness
As a partner in the Integrated Project “FLOODsite” (6th EU-FP) we investigate the impact of land-use on runoff formation and runoff concentration
For all forest stands an increase of the field capacity was observed
Summary
The European Flood-Directive (EC 2007) points out the need of flood risk maps Based on these maps flood risk management plans will be prepared focusing on prevention, protection, and preparedness. The assessment of the catchments’ potential to retain water in the landscape is part of the management plans. This effort has to be done river-basinoriented and directly linked to the EU-Water-FrameworkDirective (EC 2000). The novel Water Law of Saxony (SachsWG 2004) contains regulations concerning “flood formation areas” (“Hochwasserentstehungsgebiete”). For such “flood formation areas” the novel law addresses the conservation and improvement of the natural water retention
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