Impacts of freeze-thaw processes and subsequent runoff on Cs washoff from bare land in Fukushima

Igarashi, Yasunori*; Onda, Yuichi*; Wakiyama, Yoshifumi*; Yoshimura, Kazuya  ; Kato, Hiroaki*; Kozuka, Shohei*; Manome, Ryo*

The impact of freeze-thaw processes and subsequent runoff affecting the Cs-137 (Cs) flux and concentration in sediment discharge were revealed in bareland erosion plot following the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant accident by detailed monitoring and laser scanner measurement on the soil surface. We found that surface topographic changes due to the frost-heaving during the winter- spring period, and rill formation during the summer. We also found the evident seasonal changes in Cs concentration; high during the early spring and gradually decreased thereafter, then surface runoff from the plot frequently occurred during spring and autumn when rainfall was high and reached a maximum in summer.