Soil Erosion and Land Degradation under Perennial Cropping Systems on Sloping Land in the Central Highlands of Vietnam: A GIS-Based Assessment

This study provides a GIS-based assessment of soil erosion and land degradation associated with farming on sloping land in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Using field surveys, soil analysis, and the RUSLE model, erosion rates and soil quality indicators were evaluated across different crop systems and slope gradients. Results indicate that erosion rates exceeded 40 tons/ha/year in durian monoculture systems on slopes greater than 15°, accompanied by significant declines in soil quality. In contrast, agroforestry and tea systems demonstrated lower erosion and improved soil properties. Spatial analysis identified critical erosion hotspots linked to recent agricultural expansion. The findings highlight the need for slope-adapted farming practices and provide important insights for sustainable land-use planning in tropical highland regions.