Satellite remote sensing for soil erosion modelling using the ANSWERS model

Abstract
The distributed parameter model ANSWERS was used to predict runoff and soil loss from three agricultural watersheds in the arid zone of India. Model input parameters such as landform, drainage, soil and land use/land cover were derived from Landsat Thematic Mapper false colour composites and limited ground truth. The model predicted hydrographs and sediment graphs within acceptable limits. ANSWERS underpredicted the total soil loss by factors of 2.6 to 3.6. Reasons for these results are discussed.