SLM-31806 Erosion Processes and Modelling

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

SLM-10306 Land Degradation and Remediation; SLM-30806 Land Degradation & Development.

Contents:

Water and wind erosion are globally the most important soil degradation processes, which may threaten food security for many people. Water erosion is particular important on sloping lands in semi-arid, humid tropical and temperate areas, while wind erosion is mainly a problem in arid and semi-arid regions. Controlling wind and water erosion requires a thorough understanding of the processes involved and an ability to quantify sediment transport rates. Erosion models are used to assess the land's threat by erosion as well as to understand the processes of soil erosion.
This specialized course deals with several topics relevant to experimental studies of erosion processes, as well as modelling of erosion and sedimentation dynamics. During the lectures the following topics related to modelling concepts and to wind and water erosion processes are presented:
- the concept of modelling, building up a model, processes of soil erosion and their conceptualization, analysing model performance and quality. Much emphasis is placed on modelling concepts in water erosion.
The students will make an exercise with an actually used water erosion model and discuss the procedures and outcomes. Additionally, the students will deal with recent publications on soil erosion modelling.

Learning outcomes:

After completion of this course the student will:
- have a good understanding of erosion and sedimentation processes;
- have a better insight in process based (erosion) modelling concepts and model applications;
- be familiar with scientific journal articles on erosion processes and modelling.

Activities:

- attendance of lectures;
- studying journal articles and presentation of their contents;
- application of a process based erosion model.

Examination:

- participation (15%);
- laboratory practical and report (15%);
- modelling practical, report and presentation (30%);
- individual essay writing, presentation and reviewing (40%).

Literature:

Selected readings (e.g. Journal articles) will be made available.