WECON: A model to estimate wind erosion from disturbed surfaces

We present a new wind erosion estimation model (Wind Erosion from CONstruction activities, WECON) that is designed for not only flat surfaces but also land that has been disturbed by construction or engineering activities. The core of the model is based on the maximum soil loss potential from wind erosion. The factors that were considered include wind speed, wind direction, plot dimension, particle size, soil water content, surface coverage, soil loosening, and pile height and arrangement. The model can be run in two settings: one using observation wind data and one using long-term meteorological data when observation records are absent. The model is robust in reflecting the factors influencing wind erosion when compared to field observations and wind tunnel experimental results. Portable software with a database containing information from 1781 meteorological stations across China was compiled so that users can conveniently estimate wind erosion in different locations with different (including natural or undisturbed) surface conditions.