Influence of Forest Cutting and Mountain Farming on Some Vegetation, Surface Soil and Surface Runoff Characteristics.

摘要

With the increasing demands made on our water supplies within the past few decades has come the realization that fundamental research concerning this basic natural resource is woefully lacking. Because the water resource is so closely linked with climate, it was the consensus of opinion for many centuries that man could alter it no more than he could the weather. This is not entirely true, for, in addition to climate, the available water supplies may be affected by the vegetation and soil factors. Through his use of the land, man exerts a very significant influence on both the vegetation and the soil. As a result, he also modifies the water resource, but the nature and extent of this modification has been a subject of much speculation and controversy. Because of the lack of hydrologic data, it has been impossible in the past to establish a scientific basis for the management of water as a natural resource. Currently, an increasing demand for such information is being made by many public and private interests. Industry requires a dependable supply of clean water. Municipalities demand an adequate, pure. water supply. Many public and civic agencies require information for flood control programs and power projects. The recreation and tourist trades lean heavily upon the nation's water resource. Fish and wildlife interests are dependent upon clear, cool streams for the production of fish and game.