Application of the RUSLE Method in the Development of Erosion Susceptibility Maps: A Case Study of a Micro-Watershed in Tierras Altas, Chiriquí.

This work addresses the application of the RUSLE (Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation) method for creating erosion susceptibility maps in a micro-watershed located in the Tierras Altas region, Chiriquí. The study area focuses on the district of Cerro Punta, an agricultural area characterized by steep slopes. The study aims to delineate the likelihood of soil erosion through susceptibility mapping using the RUSLE methodology, which requires the analysis of freely accessible data such as geomorphology, soil classification, land use, and precipitation to estimate the erosion potential of the area. The results show an erosive potential in the study area with values ranging from 0 to 7975 (t ha-1 year-1), with greater erosion observed in areas with agricultural activities, particularly horticulture. Erosion is distributed into five categories: low ($29.80 \%$), moderate ($19.21 \%$), high ($22.69 \%$), very high ($13.10 \%$), and severe ($15.20 \%$). This is due to the loss of vegetation cover in areas where agricultural practices are developed.