Changes in RUSLE2 2010

  This release of RUSLE2 includes two major enhancements: (1) improved description of perennial vegetation managements to ease to modeling  of haying/grazing management scenarios on vegetative growth and subsequent erosion, and (2) estimation of a representative sequence of runoff events.  Documentation of these new enhancements is not complete at this time but .pdf versions of a poster describing the perennial vegetation systems and a manuscript describing the runoff extensions are available.

  Also new with this release is the introduction of two ARS versions: (1) General Use and (2) Academic Metric. 

  The General Use version is intended for users and consultants who wish to apply RUSLE2 with existing available databases such as the USDA-NRCS databases. This version includes control similar to that granted by the NRCS to their Field Offices.  The General Use version operates in English units and includes a wide variety of screen templates that are suitable for application to agricultural lands or construction sites.

  The Academic Metric version is intended for those with a thorough understanding of the RUSLE2 science as presented in the draft Science Documentation and User’s Reference Guide.  Because of that presumed background, this version provides greater flexibility and control. The Academic Metric version provides a single user template in SI rather than English units.

If different access levels are needed, contact seth.dabney@ars.usda.gov.