Taken Maotiao River watershed of Guizhou Province as a case study

this paper simulated the spatial distribution of soil erosion in 1973

1990 and 2007

respectively

using GIS and the RUSLE model.Current status of soil erosion and its dynamic change were characterized.The results could provide scientific guidance for soil erosion control in the study area.The results show that serious soil erosion occurred mainly in the lower and western upper reaches of Maotiao River watershed.The major sediment sources included the areas classified as strong

extremely strong and severe erosion zones.In terms of land use

dry farmland and grassland were the dominant land use types resulting in serious soil erosion.The total area of minimal and weak soil erosion zones reduced during the period of 1973-1990

while highly eroded areas increased significantly.During the period of 1990-2007

the total area of strong

extremely strong and severe erosion zones decreased significantly

with an increase of the total area of minimal soil erosion.Soil erosion occurred mainly on lands with a slope grade of 6°～25°

where more attention should be paid to and some practical measures should be taken to reduce soil loss.