Soil loss estimation using RUSLE model and geospatial technologies in Gulufa Watershed, Dabus Sub-basin, West Ethiopia

Soil loss is a major environmental challenge that poses serious risks to ecological sustainability and agricultural productivity. This, in turn, affects social, economic, and ecological systems, particularly in mountainous areas like Ethiopia. This study aimed to analyze the amount of annual soil loss within the Gulufa watershed of Dabus sub-basin using the integration of the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model and geospatial technologies. The results indicate that there is a rise in mean annual rainfall, which significantly contributed to high erosivity value. Of the five stations in the study area, Kiltu Kara and Mendi exhibited the highest R-factors, measuring approximately 1772.86 and 1068.67, respectively, whereas Begi had the lowest R-factor at 706.66. The highest mean annual soil loss recorded across the 13 sub-watershed was 35 tons ha−1 year−1 in Koto, while the lowest was found in the Aba Luba sub-watershed; which had an average annual soil loss of 8.3 tons ha−1 year−1. Results indicate that the estimated annual soil loss ranges from 0 to 439.22 tons ha−1year−1 with the mean annual soil loss of 21.24 tons ha−1year−1. The findings suggest comprehensive planning for soil and water conservation, which is essential to mitigate the possible effects of soil erosion on environmental sustainability and societal well-being. The findings further highlight the critical need for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to alleviate the effects of soil erosion.