Correlation of Soil Texture of Laterite Soil with Erosion Value and Sediment Yield in Nickel Mines
Nilanchal Patel, Hernadi Untung Surapati

Professor at Department of Remote Sensing, Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Ranchi, India

Chairman at Environmental Studies and Training Institute, ESTI Envi Passion, Indonesia
Mentor (Hons) at Coursera for Understanding Research Methods by University of London

Abstract

Nickel mines in general in eastern Indonesia have laterite soil characteristics. The texture of laterite makes it highly susceptible to weathering and erosion resulting in sedimentation downstream. The processes of weathering and erosion are further triggered by the occurrence of heavy rainfall in the laterite sites. In the present research, RUSLE soil erosion model has been implemented to determine the vulnerable areas of soil erosion on lateritic soils. The results of this investigation will serve as vital indicators to implement remedial measures in the vulnerable sites especially in the reclamation areas of the abandoned mines in order to alleviate soil erosion and sedimentation.

Keywords: Soil Erosion, Sedimentation, Rusle, Soil Laterite, Nickel Mine

Topic: Environmental education