Erosion and Reclamation Plots: Research on the Hydrology and Water Quality of Watersheds Subjected to Surface Mining

摘要

An erosion and reclamation experiment was conducted on a geologic site in east-central Ohio to determine the effect of slope and reclamation treatments on hydrologic, sediment loss, and vegetative variables. Analyses of the fallow plot data showed that a topsoiled surface significantly decreased soil loss, but was of borderline significance in affecting peak flow when compared with spoil. The application of 1 and 2 tons of mulch reduced soil loss 3.8 and 10 times, respectively, compared with no-mulch plots, but was of borderline significance in explaining runoff and peak flow changes. Treatment effects on vegetative establishment and growth were measured over a 2-year period.