Soil surface change data of high spatio-temporal resolution from the plot to the catchment scale

Abstract. Although process-based soil erosion models are valuable tools for predicting and managing soil erosion, their limitations arise from constraints in integrating novel data possibilities, uncertainties in parameterisation, and the difficulties in integrating different process scales and their transitions. This study presents a unpresented approach to enhance soil erosion modelling through the utilisation of nested high-resolution spatio-temporal data obtained through structure from motion (SfM) photogrammetry. This technique permits comprehensive observation of soil surface elevation changes during precipitation events, encompassing data acquisition at diverse scales, from plot to slope to micro-catchment. The study presents a unique dataset (Epple et al., 2026, https://doi.org/10.25532/OPARA-1038) that integrates high-resolution time-lapse photogrammetry, field measurements, and UAV (uncrewed aerial vehicle) photogrammetric data, collected over nearly four years. This dataset is intended to enhance the understanding of soil erosion processes and serve as a valuable resource for model evaluation and calibration. The authors encourage the broader scientific community to utilise and expand this dataset, which is expected to contribute to the development of more accurate soil erosion models, thereby improving predictions and management strategies.