The cow as a geomorphic agent-a critical review
-
-
Authors: S. W. Trimble, and A. C. Mendel
Date: 1995
Journal: Geomorphology
Volume: 13
Number: 1-4
Pages: 233-253
Summary of Methods: This is a review of 120 studies illustrating how cows are an important means of geomorphological change, highlighting the direct and indirect effects of cattle on uplands, streams and ponds, and fluvial plains.
Article Summary / Main Points: On uplands, heavy livestock grazing increases soil compaction, runoff, erosion and sediment yield, while reducing infiltration; these effects were much less under moderate and light grazing. By reducing vegetation and exposing the soil surface and streambanks, grazing decreases erosional resistance. By trampling, cattle can break down banks directly and create hydraulic roughness which increases turbulence and erosion. To identify key variables, future research needs to focus on designing studies within given hydroclimatological, edaphic, and geomorphological dimensions of the areas being studied. Insights on the effects of grazing on geomorphology can be provided with both empirical studies and deterministic modeling. Studies need to be longer in order to capture more temporal variables which have greater utility to the regional studies.
Vegetation Types: Riparian and Wetlands
MLRA Ecoregions: Not Applicable
Agrovoc Control Words: Rangelands Grazing Erosion
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Scientific Synthesis
Keywords: riparian, erosion, cover, runoff, sediment yield, cattle
Annotation: The findings highlighted in this review are applicable to all riparian areas and uplands affected by livestock grazing causing geomorphological changes. This is a good review of current and past research that examines the effects of livestock grazing on the whole ecosystem and its effects on hydrologic processes. Additionally, Trimble (1994, Earth Surface Proc. and Landf. 19:451-464) measured the effect of cattle on eroding streambanks in Tennessee.
-
Get article
Cite article with DOI
-