Influence of tillage practices and rainfall intensity on runoff and soil erosion under simulated rainfall

• Published in: Scientia plena Vol. 19; no. 12
• Main Authors: Rigueiro Messa, Vinícius, Zanardini, Loreci, Secco, Deonir, Semiano Castro, Mayra Beatriz, Ruppenthal, João Gabriel, Albara Zago, Emmanuele, Beal Montiel, Caroline, Bassegio, Doglas
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 19.01.2024
• ISSN: 1808-2793; 1808-2793
• DOI: 10.14808/sci.plena.2023.120203

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of various soil preparation practices, rainfall intensities and slopes using a rainfall simulator. Three land preparation methods (mulching, terracing, and terracing + ditches), three rainfall intensities (18, 50, and 73 mm h−1), and three slopes (5, 10, and 15%) were examined to verify best practices of soil preparation. The exclusive use of straw (10 Mg ha-1) on the surface is insufficient to prevent runoff and consequently the loss of water and soil on steep terrain and subject to high-intensity rainfall. The combination of terracing + ditches proved to be effective in reducing runoff. This study has substantial implications for the control of soil erosion for the sustainable development of agriculture in subtropical conditions.