Temporal Influences of Vegetation Cover (C) Dynamism on MUSLE Sediment Yield Estimates: NDVI Evaluation

Vegetation cover is an important factor controlling erosion and sediment yield. Therefore, its effect accounted for in both experimental modelling studies of Numerous have been conducted to account the effects vegetation on across spatial scales; however, little has temporal scales. This study investigates changes multiple scales Eastern Cape, South Africa how this affects yield Tsitsa River catchment. Earth observation analysis are integrated within study. Landsat 8 imagery was processed, Normalised Difference Index (NDVI) values were extracted applied parameterise Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE) (C) factor. Imagery data from 2013–2018 analysed inter-annual trend based reference summer (March) images, while monthly years 2016–2017 intra-annual trends. The results indicate that C exhibits more variation timescale than yearly timescale. using a single month represent annual increases uncertainty. shows accounting variations reduces cumulative simulated by up 85% 30% scale. Validation with observed confirmed brought outputs closer observations. Over-simulations high late autumn early summer, when estimated high. Accordingly, uncertainties winter low NDVI leads C, whereas dry organic matter provides some protection erosion. highlight need estimation but associated estimate