The value of Google Earth™ for erosion mapping

Abstract

Google Earth™ (GE) has been used in several geomorphological contexts, especially in the study of river networks, glacial, coastal, landslides and desert landforms. In some cases, quantification is possible and landform-process relations can be inferred. GE has been little used in studies of contemporary soil erosion. This brief case study illustrates the potential for quick, free and accurate surveys that are particularly valuable as an aid to field work. The main drawback of GE is the arbitrary timing of imagery, in this case with only 3years of complete coverage of the study area between 2001 and 2015.