Predicting effects of climate, soil, and topography on road erosion with the WEPP model

Morfin, S.; Elliot, B.; Foltz, R.; Miller, S. 1996. Predicting effects of climate, soil, and topography on road erosion with WEPP. Paper 96-5016. Presented at the ASAE International Winter Meeting. St. Joseph, MI: American Society of Agricultural Engineers. 11 p.

Keywords: dips and waterbars; erosion control; modeling; road erosion; WEPP

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Abstract: Natural erosion and sedimentation in forest streams help keep the streams functioning properly. However, forest development, harvest, and management require roads to be built and maintained, and these roads may create excess sediment. Erosion from roads has become a greater concern as forests are developed and as the demand for forest management increases. Sediment added from these human activities can be harmful to natural stream habitats.
There are many techniques for reducing erosion and sediment transport on roads. Graveling travelways, installing water bars or cross drains, and establishing riparian buffer zones are usually the most cost effective. Field tests have shown that spacing recommendations for these types of controls should be based on soil type, topography, road dimensions, road aspect, and climate. Therefore, design recommendations for these controls cannot be made on a nationwide or statewide level.

Moscow FSL publication no. 1996e