Database of Geomorphic Features, Klamath River, California 2010

The USGS, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, compiled a map of geomorphic features along a 140-km segment of the main stem Klamath River below Iron Gate Dam, CA. Flood disturbance within the study reach is produced by the combined effect of natural flows and reservoir releases. The physical response of the Klamath River to flood disturbance is strongly dependent upon sediment storage in bars and floodplains. The map provides a summary of channel and riparian features that was used to estimate sediment storage in bars and floodplains. Study results will be useful for interpreting linkages among physical and biological processes and for evaluating the effectiveness of flow management targeted to improve river conditions for endangered salmonid populations. The geomorphic map is contained within an ArcGIS geodatabase (v.10.6.1). The structure of the geodatabase and the methods used to delineate individual geomorphic features are described in a companion report.