Resource information
Thorough land use planning in a slope land watershed requires careful consideration of both natural and social conditions. A modified "simple-accurate" method was used to estimate a land use potential value for each terrain unit of a slope land watershed in Taiwan. Soil loss estimates based on erosion modeling served as a guide for determining the most suitable land use type. The social feedback to the proposed land use planning was assessed through on-site interviews with the land users. Results indicate large conflicts and differences between land use planning based on natural condition evaluation and social needs. For sustainable soil and water resource use, land areas with moderate to high land use potential value can only be released for human activities if adequate soil and water conservation practices are maintained. Land areas with less than moderate land use potential should be kept in their original natural stage. This recommendation should greatly improve the soil and water loss problems in the study area and ensure future sustainable development of soil and water resources in Taiwan.
