Factors affecting soil erosion in Beijing mountain forestlands

Abstract

The role of regions, vegetation types and forest stand density in controlling soil erosion were investigated in Beijing mountain forest, China. The main objective was to develop some models to estimate soil erosion under different forest conditions including regions, vegetation type, and stand density as influenced by artificial experiment. Multilevel regression model was used for developing these models. Data used were collected from 23 sampling plots (standard 1 ha units) in the Nature Reserves and State/National Forest in Beijing's mountainous area. This study presents summary data on soil loss as affected by forest condition. The results indicate that region, vegetation types and forest stand density have certain and different degrees of effects on soil erosion of forest land. The present study plays an important role in clarifying forestry management technical processes related to soil erosion, linking these elements to current Chinese forestry issues and bringing new guidance to reducing sediment-related disasters in China.

Key words: Multilevel regression model, forest land, soil erosion, Beijing Mountain.