Modelling soil loss rates in the Ethiopian Highlands by integration of high resolution MOMS-02/D2-stereo-data in a GIS

Landscape degradation by soil erosion has increased considerably in the Ethiopian Highlands since the deforestation of the natural mountain forests and the cultivation of large areas, resulting in a serious threat to the Ethiopian population. This investigation shows how to integrate remote sensing data into a geographical information system (GIS) for modelling soil loss rates. Stereoimage data of the MOMS-02/D2-sensor, tested during the Second German Spacelab-Mission D-2, served as main database. By application of the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) thematic maps were produced, which emphasize the spatial impact of different soil erosion factors and show the expected dimensions of soil loss. The result shows that the integration of remote sensing data into a GIS offers various applications for resource management in developing countries.