6.4-Hydrological behaviour of a mini agricultural watershed in a high rainfall area of the Himalayan region

Abstract

The paper presents the research experience on the development of a selected watershed including the measurement of runoff, soil and nutrient losses. The watershed management practices implemented enable in checking the runoff effectively within the areas thereby reducing soil erosion much below the permissible limits. Runoff and sediment yield mainly depends upon the characteristics of rainfall and the watershed characteristics which can be influenced by the soil conservation measures taken• on the catchment. A watershed consisting 26 hectares in area was developed and put to scientific use. Three parameters, namely runoff, soil and nutrient losses before and after the treatment of the basin were studied and compared for a rainfall period of June to September for continuously ten years (1979-1988).