Determining Wind Erosion in the Great Plains
May 1982 [82-WP 3]
Elwin G. Smith, Burton C. EnglishSuggested citation:
Smith, E. and B.C. English. 1982. "Determining Wind Erosion in the Great Plains." Working paper 82-WP 3. Center for Agricultural and Rural Development, Iowa State University.
Abstract
Wind erosion is defined as the movement of soil particles resulting from strong turbulent winds. The movement of soil particles can be categorized as suspension, saltation, or surface creep. Fine soil particles can be suspended in the atmosphere and carried for great distances. Particles too large to be suspended move in a jumping action along the soil surface, known as saltation. Heavier particles have a rolling movement along the surface and this type of erosion is surface creep.