How do ski resorts impact soil erosion? This study examines the effects of ski infrastructure on soil erosion processes in a small catchment within the Gubałowskie Foothills of southern Poland. The research analyzes landscape changes before and after the construction of a ski station, focusing on flow accumulation, slope morphometry, and drainage ditches. Repeated DEMs derived from aerial LiDAR survey, geodetic measurements, and geomorphological mapping revealed that ski infrastructure not only transforms hillslopes but also creates alternating erosion and accumulation patterns. Poorly designed drainage ditches led to material buildup and new outlets. Escarpments diminished, while alluvial fans developed, subsequently eroded by subsurface flow and piping systems. Ultimately, this study provides insights into hillslope adjustments due to ski infrastructure. These findings support effective land management in regions modified by ski facilities, aiding in the development of sustainable ski tourism practices.
Published in Land Degradation & Development, this study fits within the journal's focus on environmental sciences and ecology. The research investigates the impact of ski infrastructure on soil erosion, directly addressing issues of land degradation and sustainable land management, key areas of interest for the journal's readership.