Discussion and Measurement of Soil Erosion in Iceland

• Main Author: Richardson, Kimberly Jane
• Format: Text
• Language: unknown
• Published: DigitalCommons@USU 1994
• Subjects: Soil; Geography; Icelandic; Plant Sciences; Soil Science; Iceland
• Online Access: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/honors/324; https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1326&context=honors

Soil erosion has occurred since the beginning of time. It is a natural process, but one that has been increasing at an alarming rate. Once soil is eroded--whether it is blown out to sea or washed down a river to sedimentize a lake--it is lost. It is almost impossible to reestablish similar soil components and characteristics in a given system. Since soil and vegetation reestablishment is expensive, the prevention of soil erosion by controlling its causes has become the most cost-effective reclamation effort. After spending six months in Iceland, I wrote this paper on the unique erosion problems facing that country. It is based on my observations, conversations, experiences, and studies while working and studying with Icelandic people.