Infiltration and Soil Erosion as Influenced by Vegetation and Soil in Northern Utah

Abstract

The influences of vegetation, soil properties, and slope gradient on infiltration capacity and soil stability of high-elevation herbland on the Wasatch Front in northern Utah were investigated under simulated rainfall conditions. Results emphasize the importance of vegetation and litter cover in maintaining infiltration capacity and soil stability. Infiltration is also affected significantly by soil properties, notably bulk density, aggregation, and moisture content.