Automated identification of stream-channel geomorphic features from high‑resolution digital elevation models in West Tennessee watersheds
High-resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) derived from light detection and ranging (lidar) enable investigations of stream-channel geomorphology with much greater precision than previously possible. The U.S. Geological Survey has developed the DEM Geomorphology Toolbox, containing seven tools to automate the identification of sites of geomorphic instability that may represent sediment sources and sinks in stream-channel networks. These tools can be used to modify input DEMs on the basis of known locations of stormwater infrastructure, derive flow networks at user-specified resolutions, and identify possible sites of geomorphic instability including steep banks, abrupt changes in channel slope, or areas of rough terrain. Field verification of tool outputs identified several tool limitations but also demonstrated their overall usefulness in highlighting likely sediment sources and sinks within channel networks. In particular, spatial clusters of outputs from multiple tools can be used to prioritize field efforts to assess and restore eroding stream reaches.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2017 |
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Title | Automated identification of stream-channel geomorphic features from high‑resolution digital elevation models in West Tennessee watersheds |
DOI | 10.3133/sir20165141 |
Authors | Jennifer M. Cartwright, Timothy H. Diehl |
Publication Type | Report |
Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
Series Title | Scientific Investigations Report |
Series Number | 2016-5141 |
Index ID | sir20165141 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center |