The factors that affect soil moisture include weather patterns, vegetation cover, topography, and soil composition. Human disturbance, such as deforestation or urban development, can drastically alter these factors by disrupting natural systems. For example, deforestation can lead to decreased vegetation cover, which can result in increased soil erosion and reduced water retention, ultimately impacting soil moisture levels. Hypothesize how human disturbance can further exacerbate soil moisture depletion by causing soil compaction and limiting infiltration processes, leading to higher rates of runoff and lower overall soil moisture content.
