A high-resolution physical modelling approach to assess runoff and soil erosion in vineyards under different soil managements

Research demonstrates that single tillage (ST) and nectariferous cover (NF) significantly mitigate soil erosion in vineyards, while continuous tillage (CT) exacerbates it compared to standard farm grass cover (RF). The study employed a physically-based model (SIMWE) combined with low-cost runoff and sediment sampling to assess erosion under four soil management practices. Findings highlight the negative impact of wheel tracks as preferential pathways for surface runoff and sediment, emphasizing the role of soil management in mitigating land degradation in steep-slope viticulture—critical for UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene. The approach integrates remote sensing with site-specific data, offering a cost-effective, replicable methodology for erosion assessment.

Straffelini, E., Pijl, A., Otto, S., Marchesini, E., Pitacco, A., & Tarolli, P. (2022). A high-resolution physical modelling approach to assess runoff and soil erosion in vineyards under different soil managements. Soil and Tillage Research, 222, 105418. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.still.2022.105418