Using GIS, Terrain Attributes and Hydrologic Models to Predict the Risk of Soil Erosion and Stream Water Deterioration Caused by Forest Roads

The impact of unsealed forest road networks on stream water quality has long been recognised and documented by many researchers (e.g. Takken et al., 2005; Flanagan et al., 2003; Croke and Mockler, 2001; Megahan et al. 2001; Croke et al., 1999; Montgomery, D.R., 1994 and Anderson et al. 1976). However, the importance of the degree of road-to-stream connectivity has only generated a limited amount of focused research and documentation (e.g. Takken et al., 2005;Farabi, 2005; Hairsine et al., 2002 and Croke and Mockler, 2001).