Assessment of soil loss rate using GIS–RUSLE interface in Tashat Watershed, Northwestern Ethiopia

Abstract The erosion of soil is one the most difficult and ongoing problems caused by deforestation, improper cultivation, uncontrolled grazing, other anthropogenic activities. As a result, assessing level quantity essential for agricultural productivity natural resource management. Thus, goal this study was to quantify loss rates identify hotspot locations in Tashat watershed, Abay basin, Ethiopia. Thematic factor maps, comprising rainfall erosivity ( R ), erodibility K topography (LS), cover management C conservation practices P were integrated using remote sensing data GIS 10.3.1 environment estimate RUSLE. findings indicated that watershed annual varies from none lower part 3970.6 t ha −1 year middle, with mean 64.2 . total estimated 61,885,742.9 tons area 48,348.4 ha. majority these erosion-affected places are geographically located middle steepest slope portion, where Cambic Arenosols higher character than types research predominate. sustainable water techniques should be implemented section respecting acknowledging logic, people, potentials.