How did nutrients losses compare between the natural and clear-cut watersheds?

Nutrient losses were generally higher in clear-cut watersheds compared to natural watersheds due to the removal of vegetation, which plays a critical role in nutrient retention and cycling. The lack of canopy cover and root systems in clear-cut areas leads to increased soil erosion and leaching of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. In contrast, natural watersheds maintain a more stable ecosystem that effectively absorbs and retains nutrients, resulting in lower overall losses. This difference highlights the ecological impact of logging practices on watershed health and nutrient dynamics.