The impact of recreation on linear erosion in the Olkhon region

Abstract

In the last decade, a significant activation of water erosion was detected in the Priol’khonie (Lake Baikal). The comparison of satellite and aerial images of 1982–1986 and 2016 years shows that the length and density of the dirt road network have increased by 12.8 times during the period of 35 years. Recreational development, unsystematic laying, and exploitation of dirt roads led to the significant increase of linear erosion and the formation of numerous erosion forms. Linear erosion develops in most cases along roads laid along the thalwegs of the ravine network. Weak substrate and sparse vegetation (sparseness is aggravated by intensive grazing) predetermine rapid development of water erosion. Thus, in most cases, the increase of the erosion network is caused by anthropogenic impact. The development of forms of linear erosion leads to the disturbance of the integrity of modern landscapes of the Olkhon region, which significantly reduces their stability and recreational potential.