Soil Erosion Rate Calculator
Estimate annual soil loss using the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE). Enter your field parameters below to calculate erosion rates and get conservation recommendations.
(MJ mm/ha/h/yr) – Measures rainfall’s erosion potential
(t ha h/ha/MJ/mm) – Measures soil susceptibility to erosion
(meters) – Horizontal length of slope
(%) – Percentage slope gradient
(0-1) – Lower values indicate better vegetation cover
(0-1) – Lower values indicate better conservation practices
Results
Topographic Factor (LS):
0.00
Annual Soil Loss:
0.00 t/ha/yr
Low
Equivalent Soil Loss:
0.00 t/acre/yr
Conservation Recommendation:
No significant erosion risk detected
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the USLE equation?
The Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) is A = R × K × LS × C × P, where:
– A = Annual soil loss (t/ha/yr)
– R = Rainfall erosivity factor
– K = Soil erodibility factor
– LS = Slope length and steepness factor
– C = Cover management factor
– P = Support practice factor :cite[3]:cite[6]
– A = Annual soil loss (t/ha/yr)
– R = Rainfall erosivity factor
– K = Soil erodibility factor
– LS = Slope length and steepness factor
– C = Cover management factor
– P = Support practice factor :cite[3]:cite[6]
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator provides estimates based on the USLE model, which predicts long-term average soil loss. Actual erosion may vary due to local conditions not accounted for in the model, such as gully erosion or wind erosion :cite[1]:cite[8]. For precise conservation planning, consult local soil experts.
Where can I find R and K factors for my area?
Rainfall erosivity (R) can be estimated from local weather data or USDA resources. Soil erodibility (K) is available through soil surveys (Web Soil Survey) or local agricultural extension services :cite[3]:cite[6]. Some regions have published values for common soil types.
What are typical C and P values?
C values range from 0.001 (dense forest) to 1 (bare soil). P values range from 0.1 (terracing) to 1 (up/down slope farming). Common values:
– No-till cropland: C = 0.2-0.4
– Conventional tillage: C = 0.5-0.8
– Contour farming: P = 0.5-0.6
– Strip cropping: P = 0.25-0.5 :cite[6]:cite[8]
– No-till cropland: C = 0.2-0.4
– Conventional tillage: C = 0.5-0.8
– Contour farming: P = 0.5-0.6
– Strip cropping: P = 0.25-0.5 :cite[6]:cite[8]
Recommended Soil Products
FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil
Premium organic potting soil that improves soil structure and reduces erosion. Perfect for establishing vegetation cover (C factor).
View on AmazonDr. Earth Home Grown Fertilizer
Organic fertilizer that enhances soil organic matter, improving erodibility (K factor) and plant growth for better ground cover.
View on Amazon