5. Conclusions
In this study, we analyzed SWC variability with landcover types, and semivariance characteristics and spatial interpolation results using a geostatistical method in 10 survey plots. Kriging interception was conducted based on variogram analysis to characterize the spatial structure of SWC in each plot. SWC declined from natural forest, brushland, grassland, planted forest and mixed forest, whereas non-significant tendency was found alongside the vertical axes of slope-side among the landcover types. Results of this study indicated that planted and mixed forests, aged between 30 and 50 years, decreased SWC compared with natural forest or shrubland in semi- and arid regions. We propose that the vegetation used in restoration projects needs to be matched with the level of local mean annual precipitation.