Abstract:
The Dabie Mountain region is a key ecological function zone in China and has long suffered from severe soil erosion and ecosystem structural degradation. To mitigate soil erosion and improve ecosystem stability in this region, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different ecological restoration measures. Based on the investigation of soil erosion drivers and the current situation in Dabie Mountain area, a multi-restoration mode of control test plot was established, through changing the type of field bank, soil structure, and reducing the erosion intensity method. Meteorological indicators, vegetation indicators, soil erosion indicators, and soil nutrients indicators were monitored, and ultimately the erosion management effect was evaluated comprehensively. The test results show that the effect of each means of restoration in the test area is significant, in which the means of building a rocky bank on the ridge of the terraced field has the most pronounced effect on soil erosion reduction, and the covering of the field surface with straw can effectively reduce soil erosion. The slope protection plants not only decreased erosion but also promoted vegetation growth, forming a positive feedback mechanism. The optimal restoration model is to build a rocky bank and plant a hedge (alfalfa and honeysuckle), which reduced soil erosion by up to 6 423.5 t/hm
2, increased the vegetation cover by 18%, and enhanced root density by 9/m
2. The restoration mode proposed in this study is suitable for popularization and application in the local restoration and treatment projects, and provides valuable technical guidance and practical support for the soil erosion control in the granite areas of China.