Forest Hydrology in China
| Authors: | K. Duan, M. Liu, X. Liu, Z. Zhang, Y. Wang, Ge Sun |
| Year: | 2025 |
| Type: | Scientific Journal |
| Station: | Southern Research Station |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1079/9781800625310.0013 |
| Source: | Forest Hydrology |
Abstract
China is a vast nation that has relatively low forest coverage and suffers chronic soil erosion and water shortages due to intensive human activities and natural conditions. Modern forest hydrology research in this populous country started late but has made important advancement during the past 40 years. This chapter provides a summary of the historical development of forest hydrology research in China, highlighting the major research methods, field installation and achievements. We present key research progress in terms of forest canopy interception, evapotranspiration, and the relationships of forests with runoff and soil erosion under the broad background of large-scale ecological restoration campaigns. In addition, we present emerging technologies and techniques such as simulation models and remote sensing, and discussed future opportunities and challenges in forest hydrological research in China.