The hydrological impact of the mediterranean forest: a review of French research

The results differ considerably from one site to another, indicating the degree of complexity of the rainfall/runoff relationship. An increase in extreme flood events due to forest disturbance could by no means be confirmed in every case. A closer look at the hydrological behaviour of the catchments cleared up the apparent inconsistencies. It is mainly the contrast between bare soil and vegetated soil, rather than between forest and other types of vegetation witch is relevant in explaining the hydrological behaviour.