The Forest Influence on Streamflow under Divergent Conditions

When the more sensational features of the freshet arising upon eroding agricultural land are set aside, what substantial factual basis remains to show that forests affect the yearlong extremes of streamflow? This question, always an intriguing one, is treated for the condition of hilly southwestern Wisconsin and adjacent Minnesota, by comparing various measures with the standards set up by the Wagon Wheel Gap streamflow experiment in Colorado. Strangely, despite considerable differences in climate and marked differences in soil conditions, it is shown that forest and other vegetation take care of the water situations about equally well in the two regions, and that it is only when bared soils enter into the picture that serious consequences are felt.