Soil Loss Equation

www.iwr.msu.edu/rusle

The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE), was developed by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and is internationally employed. It considers rainfall runoff, soil erodibility, field slope length and steepness, land cover practices, and conservation support practices to estimate average soil loss in tons/acre/year. The RUSLE Tool, an interactive web-based tool that integrates the RUSLE equation into a geographical information system (GIS), allows the user to apply “what if” scenarios to these activities to predict an estimated average soil loss in tons per acre per year based upon crop rotation and tillage practices and best management practices selected. As a result, agricultural producers, land developers and contractors will better understand the impact their decisions have on the land, and can employ practices that can minimize soil erosion from their sites.

Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).