GEOSPATIAL ANALYSIS OF THE CĂLINA WATERSHED: SOIL EROSION, SLOPE DISTRIBUTION, AND LAND USE

Soil erosion is a degradation process that affects agricultural land productivity and contributes to the deterioration of water quality in aquatic ecosystems. This study analyzes the erosion phenomenon in the Călina watershed using the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) model adapted to Romania's conditions. Geospatial analysis techniques were employed to map soil losses and identify areas vulnerable to erosion. The results indicate that 28.05% of the analyzed area experiences soil losses below 2 t/ha/year, while 35% of the area falls into the severe erosion category, with values exceeding 10 t/ha/year. The most affected areas are agricultural lands located on steep slopes, where soil losses can exceed 30 t/ha/year. Geomorphological, climatic, and anthropogenic factors have a significant influence on soil stability, highlighting the need for implementing land conservation measures. This study provides a scientific basis for developing sustainable soil protection strategies in erosion-prone regions.