Local Factors Controlling Gully Development in a Mediterranean Environment

Gullies contribute very efficiently to soil loss and degradation, particularly in Mediterranean environments. While natural factors are involved gully formation further development, anthropic action is almost always an element. Knowledge of development important if protection strategies measures be effective. In this paper, we identify the most gullies a setting based on study Alva (central Portugal). Its last four years examined, modification its morphological characteristics. The analysis was principal component (PCA) estimate correlation between quantitative characteristics, geomorphological processes, biophysical variables. results show that main seem control spatial variation erosion penetration resistance, slope, slope shape, vegetation cover.