Effects of Ridges on Erosion of Soil by Wind

Abstract

Abstract The effect of ridges on soil erosion by wind was studied under laboratory conditions with wind tunnels. Smoothed soil surface and 1.3, 2.5, 5.1, 10.2, and 20.3 cm. high ridges constructed of dune sand and three simulated cultivated soils were exposed to six wind velocities ranging from 47 to 83 miles per hour. Ridges 5.1 to 10.2 cm. high eroded little due to trapping of soil particles between ridges and average wind velocity decrease. Ridges less than 5.1 cm. high were not as effective in trapping soil particles and reducing wind velocities. Extensive erosion on ridges higher than 10.2 cm. resulted from higher wind velocities at the ridge crests and increased wind eddying.