An overview of the field and modelling studies on the effects of forest devastation on flooding and environmental issues

Abstract

Intensive field observations as well as monitoring of discharge, water quality, and soil erosion have been conducted in forest plantations in order to identify the effects of forest cover and management practices on runoff generation, sediment transport, and downstream environmental issues. Five experimental catchments, each with rather uniform lithology, were established in both managed and unmanaged plantations of Japanese cypress and cedar, as well as broadleaf forests. Field monitoring was conducted from sub‐plots (e.g. splash cups) to small hillslope plots (0·5 × 2 m) to large hillslope‐scale plots to first order streams (0·1–4 ha) and finally to larger catchments (>4 ha) in a nested structure. Remote sensing techniques were employed to identify broad scale forest stand and soil surface conditions. As part of this integrated study, these field‐based monitoring and remote sensing techniques provide information for modelling runoff generation and developing adaptive management schemes with respect to catchment‐scale water resources. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.