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Abstract: The paper presents the application of the USLE methodology for the assessment of the soil erosion susceptibility in the Roşia Montană mining perimeter, a 2000 year-old exploitation area. The peculiarities of the mountain topography and the vulnerability induced by the mining activities have caused the occurrence of soil erosion in significant areas. The identification and assessment in quantitative terms of these areas is vital from the mining structures physical stability point of view and that of environmental safety in the investigated region. The soil loss assessment is also considered in terms of Natech events (natural hazards trigger technological accidents), which combine the natural and technological components of a disaster. The results of the study illustrate the fact that the highest values of soil erosion are located in the open pit and waste heaps area, inducing the risk of physical collapse of waste heaps, especially if triggered by extreme climatic phenomena, causing a possible Natech event. Revegetation and physical stabilization measures should be implemented immediately as part of a rehabilitation plan, for the provision of regional safety.

Keyword: Soil erosion susceptibility, USLE, NATECH events, mining, Roşia Montană