Effectiveness of Erosion Control Structures in Reducing Soil Loss on Skid Trails

Forest operations can lead to increased runoff and soil loss on roads skid trails. Best management practices (BMPs) aim minimize erosion water quality problems, but the efficacies of various BMP options such as bars are not well documented. The this study was evaluate effects different densities diversion structures (water bars) volume trail gradients two soils with textures in Shenrood forest, Guilan province, northern Iran. treatments included combinations four (1, 2, 3 or 6 per 150 m length section [overland trail]), levels gradient (≤20% >20%) (clay loam silt loam). Average m2 surface area were significantly greater (P≤0.05) than clay textured soils, slope >20% (23–28%) ≤20% (5–13%). increased, average decreased increasing density both textures. On textures, lowest volumes observed one bar greatest six installed. In contrast, smallest amount bars, when only installation additional led significant differences responses at each level reductions 77%, 57% 27% loam, 79%, 60% 30% compared single treatment. reduced unit is likely due velocity trail. appears effectively divert more slower flowing from trail, leading loss. While thus better meet objective BMPs loss, managers need balance cost construction against ecological benefits An investment into may be worthwhile if able nearby vegetation reduce input trails streams, thereby preventing these streams.