To gain a better understanding of the global application of soil erosion prediction models, we comprehensively reviewed relevant peer-reviewed research literature on soil-erosion modelling published between 1994 and 2017. We aimed to identify (i) the processes and models most frequently addressed in the literature, (ii) the regions within which models are primarily applied, (iii) the regions which remain unaddressed and why, and (iv) how frequently studies are conducted to validate/evaluate model outcomes relative to measured data. To perform this task, we combined the collective knowledge of 67 soil-erosion scientists from 25 countries. The resulting database, named ‘Global Applications of Soil Erosion Modelling Tracker (GASEMT)’, includes 3030 individual modelling records from 126 countries, encompassing all continents (except Antarctica). Out of the 8471 articles identified as potentially relevant, we reviewed 1697 appropriate articles and systematically evaluated and transferred 42 relevant attributes into the database. This GASEMT database provides comprehensive insights into the state-of-the-art of soil- erosion models and model applications worldwide. This database intends to support the upcoming country-based United Nations global soil-erosion assessment in addition to helping to inform soil erosion research priorities by building a foundation for future targeted, in-depth analyses. GASEMT is an open-source database available to the entire user-community to develop research, rectify errors, and make future expansions.

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This study aims to evaluate the suitability of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool model in simulating runoff and sediment loss in the Carapelle (SE Italy), a typical Mediterranean watershed, where continuous measurements of streamflow and sediment concentration were collected over a 5‐year period, on a half‐hour timescale, processed on a daily timescale. After sensitivity analysis, the model was calibrated and validated for runoff and sediment. Statistics show generally satisfactory efficiency. To further improve sediment simulation performance, we used a seasonal calibration scheme, in which data recorded in the dry and wet seasons were used to calibrate sediments separately, on a seasonal basis. We also tested the model's capability in identifying the major sediment source zones and river segments where there is sediment deposition. On the basin scale, the average water yield (186 mm) corresponds to 27% of the total rainfall (686 mm), and average annual sediment load was estimated to be 6.8 t ha−1 year−1. On the subbasin scale, a gradient of sediment yield was found that is characterised by a large difference among the upper (7 to 13 t ha−1 year−1), central, and lower parts (<1 t ha−1 year−1) of the study area. Conversely, deposition in channel flow has its highest values in the central part of the watershed, where there is an alluvial plain. Winter wheat and olive land use are the major source areas, in terms of sediment. This study confirms that the Mediterranean watershed is a fragile ecosystem, and measures are needed to mitigate soil depletion.

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