Modelling changes in soil structure caused by livestock treading

Increased soil compaction resulting from livestock treading and use of heavy machinery is a major environmental hazard often linked to degradation the ecosystem economic services. However, there weak quantitative understanding spatial temporal extent how it modifies properties associated functions. To address this challenge, we developed framework for systematic modelling caused by grazing animals. We considered random movement in confined field describe variation that discretized square cells with given properties. then used rheology model based on Bingham’s law infer compaction-induced changes bulk density porosity. An reduction saturated hydraulic conductivity obtained porosity predictions empirically accounting macroporosity using dual-porosity permeability model. This coupled an empirical structure recovery account biological activity (i.e., earthworms roots). The effectively captures primary effects key despite lack explicit consideration complex such as redistribution pore sizes connectivity. tested density, data study at Tussock Creek experimental platform New Zealand. Data were successfully reproduced Compaction trends can be interpreted terms management, texture conditions. If are available calibration properties, could agro-ecosystem applications assess impacts (such surface runoff green-house gas emissions) livestock-grazing systems inform management strategies ameliorating these.