Soil Erosion and Land Degradation on Trail Systems in Mountainous Areas: Two Case Studies from South-East Brazil

Rangel Rangel,Guerra Guerra,Fullen Fullen,Jorge Jorge

doi:10.3390/soilsystems3030056

Rangel Rangel, Guerra Guerra + Show 2 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems3030056

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Abstract

This paper addresses the role of soil erosion and mass movements on mountainous trails due to human trampling on steep slopes. This is the case of several trails situated on forested areas in South-East Brazil, even those located in protected areas. Two methods were used to achieve the research objectives. Firstly, analyses of microtopography using erosion bridges, which was monitored four times on Caixa D’Aço natural pool trails in Serra da Bocaina National Park. Secondly, disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were collected at 0–10 cm depth at four sites on Água Branca trail in Serra do Mar State Park. Using this methodology, we assessed soil degradation in two different humid tropical environments. Generally, trampling combined with deficient trail management, play important roles in degrading soils in both areas. Bioengineering techniques should be used to recuperate these trails, which are used by tourists and local residents. We hope this research work may contribute towards improved management in Brazilian protected areas.

Highlights

Land degradation occurs globally, being more dramatic in tropical areas, where erosive rainfall regimes often cause severe soil erosion [1,2,3,4,5]
Four transversal profiles were measured on the SBNP of trails
Four transversal profiles were measured on the SBNP trails

Summary

Introduction

Land degradation occurs globally, being more dramatic in tropical areas, where erosive rainfall regimes often cause severe soil erosion [1,2,3,4,5]. Forms of land degradation include mass movements, soil erosion, acidification, salinization and desertification. Land degradation “has emerged as a serious problem during the last few decades, soil fertility has declined considerably in many parts of the world due to intensive agriculture, over-grazing, water pollution, increasing use of fertilizers and pesticides, salinization, deforestation and accumulation of non-biodegradable waste” [8]. The total land area of the Earth is estimated at 148,940,000 km , with arable land forming an estimated 13,958,000 km. Arable land constitutes

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