Effects of Gully Plugs and Contour Furrows on the Soil Moisture Regime in the Cisco Basin, Utah

Abstract

Highlight: Soil moisture patterns in and around gully plugs and contour furrows constructed on Mancos shale-derived soils in Cisco Basin were studied from December of 1965 through December of 1966. Preliminary studies were initiated during the summer and fall of 1965. Results of monthly measurements indicate increased moisture storage immediately beneath treatment depressions, but minimal lateral movement. Results of this study, and others, suggest that treatments of this type on Mancos shale will function primarily to collect runoff, sediment, and possibly associated salts and that increased vegetal production is not a logical expectation.

Improving southwestern riparian areas through watershed management

“…Contour trenches not only reduce peak flows (DeByle 1970a, Doty 1971, but also increase soil moisture storage immediately beneath the treatment depressions (Doty 1972, Gifford et al 1978. Infiltration rates into trenches vary considerably, however, depending upon the soil parent material (DeByle 1970b).…”