Geomorphological processes in semi-arid environments are strongly influenced by the connectivity between different landscape units. This connectivity can either be establishedthrough concentrated flow in rills, gullies and channels but can also have a morediffuse flow character, where sheet flow can reach the channels. Whether connectivityis established or not, is largely dependent on the properties of the landscape units involved.Moreover, the actual connectivity is strongly dependent on the magnitude ofthe events generating geomorphological processes.From two semi-arid catchments in Southeast Spain examples of events with differentdegrees of connectivity will be discussed. Fine, intermediate and broad scale aspectswill be integrated in relation to the recurrence period of the events and their consequencesfor runoff generation and sediment delivery at the hillslope and catchmentscale will be discussed.This knowledge can be used to apply sustainable strategies to reduce the undesirableon- and off-site effects in order to mitigate land degradation. However, the effectivenessof revegetation and soft engineering approaches are also site specific as well asscale dependent and these aspects should be incorporated in their planning and expectedsustainability.