Fluvial geomorphology studies provide an understanding of the physical processes responsible for shaping the character of streams and their riparian zones across both glaciatied and unglaciated regions of Wisconsin and the midwestern U.S.
Fluvial geomorphology studies provide an understanding of the physical processes responsible for shaping the character of streams and their riparian zones across both glaciated and unglaciated regions of Wisconsin and the midwestern U.S. These studies usually involve stream assessment and monitoring components that range of spatial scales from a particular reach to entire watersheds. Time scales may range from a couple of years to more than several hundred years.
Fluvial geomorphology studies at the Upper Midwest Water Science Center are geared toward understanding the reasons for and magnitude of channel changes that result in episodes of erosion and deposition, whether it be watershed-wide urbanization, climate-driven increases in floods, historical channelization, or riparian cattle grazing.
Over the last decade, most of our studies have focused on monitoring and evaluating stream restoration or erosion-control techniques, land conservation practices, or aquatic habitat improvements. In addition, we have also conducted floodplain sedimentation and stratigraphy studies, surveys of geomorphic distribution of legacy contaminants in impoundments, sediment budgets, and sediment source studies.
Below are other science projects associated with this project.
Duluth streams geomorphic assessment and stream response to the 2012 flood
Bad River watershed assessments
Kalamazoo River pre-dam removal geomorphology study
North Fish Creek bluff stabilization monitoring
Pioneer Farm bank erosion study
Bayfield tributaries geomorphic assessment for restoration
- Overview
Fluvial geomorphology studies provide an understanding of the physical processes responsible for shaping the character of streams and their riparian zones across both glaciatied and unglaciated regions of Wisconsin and the midwestern U.S.
Photographs of the channel and bluff at North Fish Creek, Wis. Fluvial geomorphology studies provide an understanding of the physical processes responsible for shaping the character of streams and their riparian zones across both glaciated and unglaciated regions of Wisconsin and the midwestern U.S. These studies usually involve stream assessment and monitoring components that range of spatial scales from a particular reach to entire watersheds. Time scales may range from a couple of years to more than several hundred years.
Fluvial geomorphology studies at the Upper Midwest Water Science Center are geared toward understanding the reasons for and magnitude of channel changes that result in episodes of erosion and deposition, whether it be watershed-wide urbanization, climate-driven increases in floods, historical channelization, or riparian cattle grazing.
Over the last decade, most of our studies have focused on monitoring and evaluating stream restoration or erosion-control techniques, land conservation practices, or aquatic habitat improvements. In addition, we have also conducted floodplain sedimentation and stratigraphy studies, surveys of geomorphic distribution of legacy contaminants in impoundments, sediment budgets, and sediment source studies.
Cattle that cross streams freely can cause bank erosion by trodding. In addition, cattle often use raw streambanks for scratching, causing additional loss of vegetation. - Science
Below are other science projects associated with this project.
Duluth streams geomorphic assessment and stream response to the 2012 flood
This study identified major geomorphic processes and factors for Duluth-area streams, assessed their sensitivity to geomorphic change, summarized the effects of the 2012 flood. It also identified channel processes, sediment dynamics, and geomorphic setting can be used to assist managers in post-flood reconstruction activities and stream restoration.Bad River watershed assessments
The Bad River has one of the highest sediment loads of all Lake Superior tributaries and is an important resource for lake sturgeon and the Bad River Tribe. This study monitors the effects of streamflow variability on sediment-related problems, including understanding the influence of land cover on hydrology, habitat, erosion and sedimentation rates, and water quality of the Bad River.Kalamazoo River pre-dam removal geomorphology study
The Kalamazoo River, a federal Superfund site, contains sediments contaminated with PCBs from historical paper mills. Dam control and erosion has exposed and mobilized the contaminated sediment, transporting and depositing it downstream. This study determined the historical geomorphic changes, measured bank stability, and evaluated the potential effects of future dam failure and removal scenarios.North Fish Creek bluff stabilization monitoring
North Fish Creek, Wisconsin, has accelerated erosion and sedimentation that negatively affects aquatic habitat. This project monitored three rehabilitation projects (including submerged flow-deflecting vanes) to determine their effect on bluff erosion rates and sediment volumes, and to describe the upland land cover and soils. This data will help guide runoff management and bluff restoration...Pioneer Farm bank erosion study
Riparian grazing allows cattle free access to streams, but may accelerate erosion by the removal or trampling of vegetation. This study measured stream bank erosion, channel morphology, and stream substrate through seven experimental intensive-rotational pastures. It also evaluated the use of photo-electronic erosion pins (PEEPs) for measuring bank erosion in this type of geomorphic setting.Bayfield tributaries geomorphic assessment for restoration
Lake Superior tributaries in Bayfield County, Wis., have accelerated erosion and sedimentation influenced by changing land use, steep slopes, erodible soils, and flashy runoff. This project assessed the geomorpology of five tributaries, identified problem areas, and assessed rehabilitation alternatives and watershed management strategies specifically related to the rehabilitation of brook trout. - Data