Footpaths: Pedogenic and geomorphological long-term effects of human trampling

• Reduction of macro pores are observed down to 3 cm below footpaths surfaces. Footpaths promote changes pedogenic iron oxides accomulations. Some the microstructures and Fe found in buried footpaths’ Incised more likely be oriented paralel stream network. can reduce gully erosion susceptibility downslope. oldest most widely distributed forms human imprint on landscape. These elongated features result continuous usage a certain route for walking, at time scales ranging from days centuries or millennia. In this qualitative investigation, we take holistic approach combining micromorphology (including voids analysis), chemical soil parameters (such as selective oxide dissolution), remote sensing (spatial distribution orientation landscape) evaluate long-term residues environmental effects resulting formation footpaths. Our diverse case studies incorporate used recreational transport purposes temperate sub-humid climates both recent historical perspectives. A reduction large was current surfaces compared control areas without The lower porosity subsequently hinders supply oxygen and/or water into sub-surface encourages stagnation compacted footpath surface. processes higher amounts and, times, macro-organic under hindering formation. As an additional compaction, surface runoff is promoted. latter may either trigger initiation gullies directly downslope lead incision themselves. occur when parallel Once incised formed, it acts channel that decreases footpath’s ‘overbank’ flow. With better understanding landscape units (1) pose archaeological questions related interaction, (2) assess carbon storage potential (3) use possible measures against erosion.