Application of 137Cs technique for evaluation of erosion and deposition rates within cultivated fields of Salihli region, Western Turkey

Soil erosion by wind and water is an important problem for Salihli region in Western Turkey. There are several vineyards on the cultivated soils of this region, which is a significant economic income source for the residents. This study focuses on the cultivated soils in these areas to quantify spatial distribution of 137Cs using 3-D graphic method and eventually to estimate erosion and deposition using the results of 137Cs spatial distribution obtained. The erosion and deposition rates were estimated using proportional and simplified mass balance models. Results obtained using simplified mass balance model gave slightly higher values than those found using proportional model. Erosion and deposition rates derived from proportional model varied from −16.02 to −19.40 t ha-1y−1 and from +6.80 to +9.62 t ha-1y−1, respectively. On the other hand, values determined using simplified mass balance model ranged from −17.52 to −21.10 t ha-1y−1 and from +7.21 to +11.31 t ha-1y−1. The comparison of the results obtained via these models revealed a good agreement within the range of 30 t ha-1y−1 soil loss and gain.