Experimental Erosion: theory and practice of soil conservation experiments

Conducting experiment is an important means to study the regularity and control measures of soil erosion. This study presents a new subject, EXPERIMENTAL EROSION, as a member of the discipline of soil and water conservation. Experimental Erosion is defined to explore the transportation law and control method of soil and water loss by performing field or laboratory tests under closely monitored or controlled experimental conditions. The similarity theory, simulation and observation technology, and data processing method are the three pillars of the experimental erosion. In spite of the significant problems associated with the design and prosecution of experimental studies of soil conservation, the experiments can provide an insight into landform evolution and dynamics that can be obtained in no other way. This study develops new data sets and experimental methods to quantify the dynamics of soil loss that represent different stages in the development of soil functions. In conclusion, application of the new data tests how simulation and observation can be coupled to guide beneficial intervention in soils in order to control soil erosion, especially that on the steep slope.