Ravine Reclamation in Italy

Abstract

An interesting technique for reclamation of badly ravined slopes in the Appenines; has been described. The two factors, namely, the run off and extremely erodible argillaceous formations, have been the principal causes of destruction of the formerly productive terrain which had been misused by deforestation, overgrazing and bad cultivation. Now these very destructive forces, i.e. run off and erodibility of soil have been cleverly harnessed and advantageously used for reclamation. Earthen checks with non-scouring spill-ways are used to retain in ravine bottoms the soil brought down from the sharp ridges by run oft' water through accelerated erosion. Valleys rise up and crests decline. In due course, the calanchivo terrain is transformed into rolling topographs with reasonably uniform slopes. These lands can then be put to proper land use-afforestation, pastures or cultivation.