Influence of Vegetation Coverage on Hydraulic Characteristics of Overland Flow

Soil erosion is a major problem in the Loess Plateau (China); however, it can be alleviated through vegetation restoration. In this study, overland flow on slope during soil was experimentally simulated using artificial grass as cover. Nine degrees of coverage and seven rates were tested combinations along 12° gradient. As degree increased, water depth but velocity decreased. The resistance coefficient increased with increasing coverage, especially after certain point. Reynolds number had an inverse relationship. When relatively small, decreased faster; when exceeded 600, at slower rate. A critical cover observed relationship between submergence degree. greater than 66.42%, first then higher Finally, formula for under derived. This has high accuracy serve reference predicting erosion.