An integrated watershed modeling framework to explore the covariation between sediment connectivity and soil erosion

Abstract Quantitative identification of the covariation between sediment connectivity and soil erosion can contribute to provide key information for watershed management. However, this its spatiotemporal response mechanisms are still unclear, especially whether be used as a basis identifying critical source areas in large‐scale ecological restored watersheds. In study, an integrated methodology framework by RUSLE, index (IC), delivery ratio (SDR) was proposed visually assess characteristics yield processes Yanhe Watershed with restoration from 1985 2020, identify subbasins. The estimated RUSLE has decreased over 80% since owing increased vegetation cover effective implementation conservation measures, but upper reaches have high intensity due differences specific controlling factors such topographic conditions land cover, requiring focused practice. IC results showed that measures varied year year, their spatial temporal patterns had strong influence on distribution connectivity, some local middle minima 1995, 1998 2010 mainly long‐term project. developed IC‐Erosion maps indicated high‐connectivity low‐erosion accounted 60% total area 1999, demonstrating reverse correlation erosion. Meanwhile, 40% occurred few (approximately 20%) high‐erosion 2000 2004, which characterized methods study ideas separately defining both quantifying bi‐variable erosion‐connectivity classification easily viewed scatterplot. This article is protected copyright. All rights reserved.