Assessment of Soil Erosion and Hydrological Response in Forest Watersheds under Changing Climate Patterns

Abstract

Forest watersheds are important for their ecological stability, hydrological regulation, biodiversity conservation and water resources protection. Unfortunately, the changing climate, in which less regular rainfall, higher temperature, and severe climate events, has caused more soil erosion and changes in hydrological processes in forest ecosystems. The impacts of these disturbances to watershed sustainability include causing accelerated levels of sediment transport, lowering infiltration, lowering soil quality, and enhancing flood and drought susceptibility. This study evaluates soil erosion intensity and the hydrological responses in forest watersheds in changing climatic conditions. Methods involve using Geographic Information System (GIS), remote sensing, climatic and hydrological data analysis, and Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model to assess erosion. The hydrological response analysis is done through rainfall-runoff and streamflow evaluation methods based on spatial analysis, climate trend assessment. Soil erosion rates and hydrological instability significantly change with increased rainfall intensity, temperature fluctuations and vegetation degradation, with the findings suggesting this. The study underscores the significance of sustainable management of watersheds such as afforestation, soil management, and climate-smart land management for ecological sustainability in the long term.