Study of the Intensity of Soil Erosion by Using Computer Graphic Global IntErO Model in the Coast of Montenegro
摘要
Soil erosion is major environmental and economic concerns worldwide. This study applies a new computer-graphic Global IntErO model to assess soil erosion intensity in the coastal region of Montenegro, integrating mechanical and intelligent systems with computer science and information technologies for improved watershed management. The study addresses the increasing impact of land degradation due to erosion, which threatens infrastructure, agriculture, and water resources. Given the unique hydrogeological and climatic conditions of Montenegro’s coastal region, understanding the spatial and temporal dynamics of erosion is critical for sustainable land management. The study, part of ongoing doctoral research, examines 40 river basins along the Montenegrin coast, employing field observations, morphometric analyses, and computational modelling. The Global IntErO incorporates 26 input parameters related to watershed geomorphology, climate, land use, and hydrology to estimate erosion potential and sediment yield. The model’s outputs include key indicators such as net soil loss, and maximum flow rates. Data on precipitation, temperature, and vegetation cover were obtained from the Institute of Hydrometeorology and Seismology of Montenegro and combined with geological and pedological data to refine erosion risk assessments. The study identifies significant variations in erosion intensity across different watersheds. The highest maximum flow rates were recorded in Rikavac 200 m3 s−1 (B–III–0,52), Željeznica 150 m3 s−1 (B–III–0,60), and Midjanska Rijeka 150 m3 s−1 (B–III–0,51), indicating high flood risks and strong sediment transport capacity. Other major torrents, such as Međurečka Rijeka 120 m3 s−1 (B–III–0,41), Sutorina 135 m3 s−1 (B–III–0,55) and Repaj 110 m3 s−1 (B–III–0,45), also pose significant erosion threats. Watersheds with moderate flood risks include Pijavica 65 m3 s−1 (C–III–0,52), Brdela 66 m3 s−1 (C–IV–0,25) and Koložun 90 m3 s−1 (B–III–0,55), while smaller torrents such as Praskvica 45 m3 s−1 (E–III–0,52) and Bečićki Potok 54 m3 s−1 (C–III–0,45) recorded localized but still significant erosion potential. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted erosion control measures in Montenegro’s coastal region. The study also validates the Global IntErO model as a valuable tool for erosion prediction and suggesting its broader applicability in similar Mediterranean regions. Future research should focus on long-term monitoring, model refinements, and integration of remote sensing data to enhance erosion risk assessments and support evidence-based land management policies.