Abstract: Investigation shows that in major forests the percentage of canopy interception is 23.3-29.6%,dry weight of litterfalls is l2.6-39.5t. ha^-1, and water absorption capacity of litter is 230.3-612.7%,The surface soil(0-20cm)planted with major forests can conserve water about 154.60-275.61t. ha^-1(15.5-27.6mm). The water abrorption capacity of forest litter is 2.3-6.2 times larger than its weight.

Key words: Pinus massoniana, fine root production, turnover rate, Three Gorges Reservoir Area.