ABSTRACT
Zingg is often credited with the development of the first erosion-prediction equation used to evaluate erosion problems and select conservation practices to reduce excessive erosion. RUSLE is a major revision of the USLE. While retaining the equation structure of the USLE, several concepts from process-based erosion modeling have been incorporated in RUSLE to improve erosion predictions. Roughness and clodiness of soils also affect the degree and rate of soil sealing by raindrop impact. Rough, cloddy soils typically have high infiltration rates. Antecedent soil moisture has a substantial influence on infiltration and runoff and, hence, on soil erosion. RUSLE has computer subroutines for many tillage operations and crops. The development of the RUSLE computer program permits application to situations not possible with the USLE technology. The technology in USLE and RUSLE greatly limits their utility for evaluating many natural resource problems associated with man’s activities on the land.
