Modelling the Soil Loss in the Watershed of the Chaddad Wadi in Terms of Both Rockiness and Soil Slaking Indexes

Abstract

Currently we are at a phase where morphogenesis is gaining more prominence and dimension regarding the pedogenesis. The numerous multidisciplinary studies on the soil showed that the erosive action as well as the various problems that result from it, bring out a very serious state of soil degradation in the semi-arid field [1]-[9]. Several attempts have established to set empirical and experimental methods for a quantitative estimation of soil loss caused by diffuse erosion. In this perspective, this research intends to track soil losses in the watershed of the Chaddad wadi, the average-flowing stream of the Nebhana wadi belonging to the lower semi-arid field. The main stream and its tributaries drain an area of 26.5 km2 from the eastern slopes of Ejhaf mountain (517 m) and Fartout mountain (476 m), as well as the southern slope of Ediour mountain (405 m). The dividing line of the waters with the Khalfallah wadi and Bel Assoued wadi is caused by rows of hills with an altitude ranging between 220 m and 306 m such as the hills of Sidi Salah and those of Es-Souida and Ain Fres. The Wischmeier Equation will be improved by two corrective parameters: the rockiness on the one hand and the soil slaking index on the other, aiming to develop and optimize the potential of this empirical model. This application allowed overcoming some of the limitations that came with the Wischmeier equation, which is primarily designed for an application within different physical conditions on the scale of a land plot. This research is an opportunity to make a detailed contribution to the potential sensitivity of the watershed to water erosion. A good demarcation of the physical anthropogenic framework of the erosive action will provide substantial support in terms of soil protection and the stabilization of watersheds emitting sediments.