How land-use affects sediment yields and surface runoff in a small semi-arid watersheds [sic] : a case study of the El Toro Watershed

Author

Bronwyn Feikert, California State University, Monterey Bay

Date

2001

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Science & Environmental Policy

Abstract

l Toro Creek Watershed is a small semi-arid watershed known to exhibit high transmission loss and produce flash floods. In order to compare land-use types and slope to sediment yields, El Toro Creek Watershed was monitored for suspended sediment and surface runoff in February 2001. Slope, soil type, and land-use sub-basin characteristics were delineated using Geographical Information Systems and used to explain suspended sediment transportation and surface runoff in the watershed. Steep slopes associated with non-vegetated banks exhibited high loads of sediment and surface runoff. Lack of sediment to the lower watershed from upstream depositional areas has produced stream bank failure in El Toro Creek. Revegetation of theses downstream banks would help decrease erosion from creek bed and alleviate flooding in the lower portion of this small semi-arid watershed.

Comments

Capstone Project (B.S.) Earth Systems Science & Policy Institute

Recommended Citation

Feikert, Bronwyn, "How land-use affects sediment yields and surface runoff in a small semi-arid watersheds [sic] : a case study of the El Toro Watershed" (2001). Capstone Projects and Master's Theses. 107.
https://digitalcommons.csumb.edu/caps_thes/107