Comparison of long-term field-measured and RUSLE-based modelled soil loss in Switzerland

Long-term field measurements to asses model-based soil erosion predictions by water are rare. We have compared based on assessment surveys from a 10-year monitoring process with spatial-explicit model the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE). Robust input data were available for both mapped and modelled parameters 203 arable fields covering an area of 258 ha in Swiss Midlands. The 1639 forms digitized converted raster format 2 m resolution. A digital terrain using resolution multiple flow direction algorithm calculation topographic factors support practice factor was modelling RUSLE. other RUSLE determined each field. comparison loss values revealed substantially higher estimation 8, mean 0.77 t/ha/yr vs. 6.20 t/ha/yr. However, high losses >4 reproduced quite reliably model, while predicted drastically <4 Our study shows value long-term evaluation. RUSLE-type results should be at landscape scale order improve calibration model. Further related land management like headlands, traffic lanes potato furrows need included before they may used policy advice.