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Soil erosion poses a significant problem in the Mediterranean region, posing serious threats to the environment and natural resources. The objective of this study is to identify and evaluate the risks associated with gully erosion in the Medjerda watershed in the northeastern part of Algeria. To accomplish this goal, two models were utilized: the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (F-AHP) and the frequency ratio (FR). Twelve factors that contribute to soil erosion were considered in the study: slope, elevation, distance to streams, land use and land cover, drainage density (DD), topographic wetness index (TWI), rainfall, soil groups, lineament density, soil power index (SPI), sediment transport index (STI), and plan curvature. The results indicate that sediment transport index (STI), rainfall, and slope are the most influential factors in predicting erosion in the Medjerda Basin. To validate the models used, the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) was employed. The AUC values obtained for the FR and F-AHP models were 75.5 and 73.7%, respectively, indicating their excellent accuracy in identifying the erosion susceptibility area. The accuracy ratings of both models demonstrate their outstanding predictive capabilities. Thus, the results of soil erosion susceptibility maps with a better success rate and forecast could be beneficial and effective for implementing various policy measures to safeguard soil. They could be useful for managing gully erosion risks in different parts of the river basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the dynamics of shoreline change is essential for efficient coastal management. This research provides a thorough analysis of the long-term changes to the shoreline in the Tamil Nadu district of Tirunelveli, India, spanning five decades (1972–2022). Remote sensing techniques and digital shoreline analysis techniques were employed to investigate the temporal variations and underlying mechanisms influencing shoreline dynamics. Remote sensing methods include satellite imagery analysis, digital shoreline analysis techniques involve GIS-based mapping and measurement of coastal features. The statistical methods like EPR, LRR and NSM techniques were used in this study to identify the shoreline changes. It considers the sedimentary structures of tidal flats and grain size investigations in the region to improve our comprehension of the geological characteristics and sediment dynamics driving shoreline alterations. The findings demonstrate how the shoreline location at Koodankulam changed considerably during the course of the research. This study report spans a sizable length of time and provides significant insights on the long-term behaviour of the Tirunelveli district coastline. Sedimentary structures and grain size investigations provide insights into erosion, deposition patterns, and sediment transport, crucial for understanding shoreline dynamics. The three primary very high erosion hotspots in the research area are Kunjanvilai, Koodankulam, and Kuttam. At a rate of − 23.5, − 23.6, and − 23.6 m/year, maximum erosion is shown by EPR, LRR, and WLR. This study outcomes major two regions like Vijayapathi and Anjugramam are facing more accretion zone. A maximum of 13.33, 11.14, and 11.14 m/year is shown by EPR, LRR, and WLR. According to projection research, the spans will measure 60.67 km in 2042 and 59.62 km in 2032, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The battering of bedrock by bedload collisions is the primary mechanism by which bedrock rivers erode and landscapes evolve. The energy imparted via impacts acts to detach bedrock via the growth and intersection of surface fractures. We present impact experiments designed to test the influence of particle impact energy on bedrock erosion rates. We found that erosional efficiency increased with increasing impact energy. Notably, these increases in efficiency are not captured by a widely‐used mechanistic bedrock erosion model. Observed increases in erosional efficiency were linked with enhanced elastic energy dissipation captured by differences in the coefficient of restitution. We suggest that this increase in energy dissipation is indicative of enhanced crack extension for high velocity impacts. Our experiments indicate a clear energy‐dependence for bedrock detachment processes that is not yet captured by bedrock incision models but may be integrated into long‐term erosion rates and landscape evolution. Plain Language Summary: Bouncing sediment grains batter the bedrock beds of rivers during floods. As these impacts collide with the bed, they slowly chip away at the riverbed bedrock. It's perhaps intuitive that a grain with more energy when it collides with the riverbed is able to chip away more bedrock. But, how much more destructive are these high energy impacts? We designed an experiment where we hit a bedrock sample with a steel ball at a range of impact energies, over and over again, up to 30,000 times, and measured how much material was chipped away. High energy impacts eroded more material, but this increased efficiency of erosion is not fully captured by impact‐based erosion models. We hypothesize that for higher energy impacts, a larger fraction of the incoming energy is used to crack the bedrock, more easily eroding material. We liken the relative influence of these high energy impacts to a battering ram, where only a few strikes can easily break down a door, whereas lower energy impacts, similar to a simple knock, are unlikely to achieve the same result. We suggest that this effect may be important in determining the influence of extreme events on bedrock erosion over long timescales. Key Points: Impact experiments demonstrate that bedrock erosional efficiency is enhanced with increasing impact energyExperimentally‐derived coefficients of restitution and rock resistance coefficients indicate enhanced elastic energy dissipation with increasing impact energyResults suggest that more energetic impacts enhance crack extension, increasing erosional efficiency [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have demonstrated that vegetation‐generated turbulence can enhance erosion rate and reduce the velocity threshold for erosion of non‐cohesive sediment. This study considered whether vegetation‐generated turbulence had a similar influence on natural cohesive sediment. Cores were collected from a black mangrove forest with aboveground biomass and exposed to stepwise increases in velocity. Erosion was recorded through suspended sediment concentration. For the same velocity, cores with pneumatophores had elevated turbulent kinetic energy compared to bare cores without pneumatophores. However, the vegetation‐generated turbulence did not increase bed stress or the rate of resuspension, relative to bare cores. It was hypothesized that the short time‐scale fluctuations associated with vegetation‐generated turbulence were not of sufficient duration to break cohesion between grains, explaining why elevated levels of turbulence associated with the pneumatophores had no impact on the erosion threshold or rate. Plain Language Summary: Mangrove habitat grows by retaining sediment. To restore these systems, it is necessary to understand how vegetation influences the transport and retention of sediment. This study used sediment cores collected from the interior of a mangrove forest to study how the aboveground roots, called pneumatophores, influence hydrodynamic conditions and sediment transport, and in particular the onset and rate of sediment erosion. Individual pneumatophores generate eddies that enhance turbulence, compared to conditions without pneumatophores. In sandy soil, vegetation‐generated turbulence can enhance erosion. However, in this study, vegetation‐generated turbulence did not increase the rate of erosion for natural cohesive (muddy) sediment, suggesting that the mangrove forest interior has naturally greater resistance to erosion and sediment loss. Key Points: For the same velocity, cores with pneumatophores had higher turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) compared to cores without pneumatophoresUnlike sands, the inception of erosion and erosion rates for cohesive sediment were better predicted by bed shear stress than by TKEModelers should parameterize erosion within vegetation differently for cohesive and non‐cohesive sediment [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guru Prasath, J.; Sannasiraj, S.A., and Chandramohan, P., 2024. Nearshore morphological changes due to severe cyclonic storm activity along the east coast of India. Journal of Coastal Research, 40(4), 696–713. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. Nearshore waves, wind, and tidal current mobilize seabed sediments; sort, transport, and redistribute the sediments; and modify the nearshore seabed morphology. Waves play a dominant role in morphological changes among winds, waves, and tidal currents. The nearshore wave breaking induces the initiation of sediment movement, and the associated alongshore current transports a large volume of sediments that tend to either accrete toward or erode from the beach face and seabed. Sediment transport rate in the nearshore waters during cyclones is higher than that under normal conditions. The measured changes due to Cyclone Nivar in November 2020 in the nearshore morphology along the Mahabalipuram coast are examined to understand the response of nearshore morphology to cyclonic wave-induced forcing. The beach-profile measurements across 10 transects at 100 m spacing covering about 1000 m along the coast were measured before and after the passage of Cyclone Nivar as a part of the present field study. The evolving beach profiles during Cyclone Nivar were simulated using the storm-induced beach change (SBEACH) model, which is a cross-shore profile evolution model. The changes due to berm erosion and deposition of nearshore sand bars have been compared from field measurements data and model prediction. The calibrated model was then used to simulate the beach profile response at two other locations along the cyclone-affected coastline to examine the shoreline impact. The calibrated model can be used along the coast to understand the poststorm profiles of the beach with reasonable accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the hydrodynamic-morphological interactions on a microtidal intermediate-dissipative beach under low to moderate wave energy conditions using field measurements during two climatic seasons. The separate contributions of currents, sea-swell waves, and infragravity waves to high- and low-frequency sediment fluxes were analyzed. The infragravity wave energy was more relevant near the swash zone than in other areas. Although the currents are the primary suspended sediment transport mechanism, the results suggest that the waves are an important driver of sediment suspension from the seabed. The results indicate that Sea-Swell (SS) waves and cross-shore currents are the prevailing hydrodynamic factors in nearshore sediment transport, and the cross-shore suspended sediment transport rates are higher than those in alongshore transport. The submerged bar intensified during the wet season (1–4 November 2018) when the wave height intensities were lower, contrary to the dry season (24–25 March 2018). Significant accretion nearshore was identified (in the subaerial beach) during the wet season when the suspended sediments were greater, the SS-wave heights nearshore were lower, and sediment flux was directed onshore. A notorious erosion was distinguished during the dry season. The most representative volume changes occurred during the dry season (with high erosion), which is attributed to the high SS-wave energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beach–dune systems are highly dynamic features of the coastal system, the evolution of which is influenced by several processes that occur at very different spatial and temporal scales. To mitigate shoreline retreat that threatens extensive coastal areas worldwide, coastal erosion mitigation measures are implemented, aiming to make coastal areas resilient to the effects induced by coastal erosion and the anticipated climate change related to storms, flood events and sea level rise. Numerical modelling can support planned and sustainable coastal management from a medium-to-long-term perspective (decades). This research focuses on presenting contributions regarding the numerical modelling of subaerial beach dynamics (berm width and dune systems interactions) from a medium-term perspective. The method applied is based on a combination of the results of two simplified numerical models (the LTC and CS-Model). The results demonstrate the potential of the proposed combined model for medium-term projections, allowing for the interpretation of beach–dune dynamics and the evaluation of the importance of longshore and cross-shore sediment transport processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extreme precipitation events in small alpine catchments trigger hazardous hydro‐geomorphic processes that cause considerable damage to settlements and infrastructure. In summer 2011 and 2017, two flood events mobilizing large amounts of sediments struck the town of Oberwölz (Styria, Austria) located at the outlet of the Schöttlbach catchment. We used data from local weather stations and precipitation radar to analyse the meteorological settings that caused the flooding. We compiled a consistent sediment budget for the 2017 event by combining geomorphic mapping, connectivity analysis, high‐resolution airborne LiDAR (ALS) and uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV)‐borne LiDAR (ULS), data from other authors for the 2011 event and external information (e.g., event analysis and excavation data). The 2017 event mobilized higher sediment volumes than the 2011 event (131 000 m3 vs 90 000 m3) even though 24‐h precipitation and peak discharges were lower in 2017. First assumptions that the larger sediment output was caused by the reworking of the 2011 flood deposits proved to be incorrect. The impacts of the 2011 event affected the resilience of the geomorphic system resulting in a significantly higher hillslope sediment supply. We conclude that sediment transport in alpine catchments can increase disproportionately when recurrence intervals fall below a critical level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sediment management is an important aspect of dam removal projects, often driving costs and influencing community acceptance. For dams storing uncontaminated sediments, downstream release is often the cheapest and most practical approach and can be ecologically beneficial to downstream areas deprived of sediment for years. To employ this option, project proponents must estimate the sediment quantity to be released and, if substantial, estimate how long it will take to erode, where it will go and how long it will stay there. We investigated these issues when the Bloede Dam was removed from the Patapsco River in Maryland, USA, in 2018. The dam was about 10 m high, and its impoundment was nearly filled with an estimated 186 600 m3 of sediment composed of 70% sand and 30% mud. After removal, using elevation surveys generated by traditional methods as well as structure‐from‐motion (SfM) photogrammetry at high temporal resolution, we documented rapid erosion of stored sediments in the first 6 months (~60%) followed by greatly reduced erosion rates for the next two and a half years. A stable channel developed in the impoundment during the rapid erosion phase. These results were predicted by a two‐phased erosion response model developed from observations at sand‐filled impoundments, thus expanding its applicability to include impoundments with a sand‐over‐mud stratigraphy. A similar two‐phase erosion response has been reported for sediment releases at other dam removals in the United States, France and Japan across a range of dam and watershed scales, indicating what practitioners and communities should expect in similar settings. Downstream, repeat surveys combined with discharge and sediment gaging showed rapid transport of eroded sediments through a 5‐km reach, especially during the first year when discharges were above normal, and little overbank storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suspended sediment load (SSL) and discharge are closely related concepts that characterise the sediment movement and quantity within water bodies and play a crucial role in evaluating the impact of erosion, sedimentation, and land management practices on riverine ecosystems. Despite numerous studies on SSL and discharge assessments, a site-specific understanding remains essential for effective riverine ecosystem protection. This study integrates daily sediment and discharge data from the Koelwar station spanning June 2010 to May 2015, with a primary focus on analysing SSL variability relative to Sone River discharge in Bihar. SSL–discharge rating curves were computed to assess concentration shifts during low flow season (LFS), high flow season (HFS), and the annual period. Results indicate a nearly linear dependence of SSL on discharge, with r2 values of 0.72, 0.94, and 0.84 for LFS, HFS, and the annual period, respectively. The study unveils the underlying mechanics driving catchment erosion and sediment transport during lean and peak flows through hysteresis loops. Findings reveal that 50% of events are influenced by shear stress and hydraulic forces from the channel bed, 20% by sediment depletion in the channel bed due to repeated peak flows, and the remaining 30% by a combination of shear stress and sediment reduction. Additionally, MATLAB-utilized wavelet analysis explains the time-frequency variability of discharge and SSL. Cross-wavelet analysis shows the outflow of SSL closely following discharge, indicating synchronisation across all scales. The study underscores the importance of effectively managing runoff events to mitigate SSL. The proposed methodology and results offer valuable insights for water management and policymakers, aiding in the formulation of guidelines to minimise anthropogenic activities and sustain aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The densely populated coast of the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) is experiencing escalating erosion from climate change (CC). To assess Longshore Sediment Transport (LST) changes in the past and future, an empirical formula was used to model the GoG's LST. Nearshore wave conditions, crucial for LST estimation, were derived by projecting significant wave height, mean wave period, and mean wave direction from deep water to the breaker zone. These wave conditions were used as input for LST computation. Analysing three time slices: Past (1979–2005), mid-century (2026–2045), and end-century (2081–2100) under RCPs 4.5 and 8.5, results indicate continuous increase in LST in most locations, with local and seasonal variations. LST magnitudes range from 104 to 105 m3y−1 in the GoG, with the Cameroonian coast having the least. This aligns with the rising wave energy from CC. LST directions are predominantly eastward, though some locations, like off Lagos and Cameroon-Gabon coasts, show westward trend, correlating with coastal orientation influenced by southward wave directions. RCP 8.5 projections suggest mid-century increase, intensifying by end of century, with yearly rates of change around 103 m3y−1 and future LST changes up to 105 m3y−1. This situation implies accelerated sediment removal, heightening erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erosion of banks and channel migrations are usually common phenomenon and recurring geo-hazardous problem in the Brahmaputra-Jamuna river system of Bangladesh. The present study intensively analysed multi-temporal Landsat satellite imageries (Landsat MSS, Landsat TM, Landsat ETM+, Landsat OLI TIRS), historical documents (Hunter maps), and literature information employing Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System techniques, and estimation of braiding and sinuosity indices especially emphasizing channel bar development, braiding, and bank-line migration of the river. The computed braiding indices of the river were 1.5, 10.3, 13.4, 11.0, 10.6 and 14.6 for the year of 1853–1857, 1977, 1989, 2000, 2014 and 2018, respectively (overall deciphering increasing trend). Similar to the braiding indices, the sinuosity indices (2.58, 7.02, 9.92, 8.31, 7.42 and 11.25 for the same selected years) of the river have also been changed over time. During 1853–1857 to 2018, 766.7 and 1624.2 km2 of lands extensively eroded on the east and west bank, respectively at a rate of 4.8 and 10.1 km2 yr−1. However, from 1977 to 2018, the erosion rates were 14.4 and 12.5 km2 yr−1, respectively. High discharges, sediment transport associated with random bars formation related braiding expansion, and weak bank materials are presumably the governing factors for causing such simultaneous severe bank erosion and remarkable bank-line migration phenomenon. Although, from 1853–1857 to 1977 the erosion of the river followed the river flow direction. It is expected that the outcomes of this research can contribute further research on morphodynamic characteristics of the braided river for better understanding the river characteristics, the river hydromorphology, water and sediment transport, its bank erosion, and formulating protective measurement plan for their sustainable current flow path maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The river morphology of a braided‐type river is rather complex. High sediment transport rates and frequently changing discharges are the cause of dynamic planform evolution. Over the past few decades, scientific attention has been directed toward understanding the coexistence of alternating bars and the consequent emergence of confluences and divergences, all of which interact intricately with the process of bank erosion. It is still rather challenging to estimate or predict the total sediment transport rate in this type of river, especially by considering various hydrologic data and climate effects. This study is focused on the reach of the Devoll River in Albania, located upstream of the Banja dam. Understanding the morphodynamics of this river reach holds significance due to the expanding delta upstream of the dam reservoir. The objectives of the two‐dimensional depth‐averaged approach of the present study are to investigate the temporal variation of braided intensity of Devoll River and the effect of using a discharge hydrograph from hydrologic data compared to the regulated one from the upstream dam on the morphodynamics and sediment transport of the river. After evaluating various parameters such as 11 different sediment transport functions, the best results were reached for a cell size of 5 × 5 m2, Manning roughness coefficient of 0.03, Meyer‐Peter and Müller's sediment function, Hayashi et al. (1980) hiding function, and Van Rijn bed roughness predictor in this study. In addition, the results of comparing satellite images and modeling the river from 2019 to 2023 show that the braided index decreased, and this can be due to the fact that the real scenario of the river has a regulated discharge compared to the non‐regulated discharge from hydrologic data, in the mentioned period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutting-edge technology for fluvial monitoring has revolutionised the field, enabling more comprehensive data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Traditional monitoring methods were limited in their spatial and temporal resolutions, but advancements in remote sensing, unmanned aerial systems (UASs), and other innovative technologies have significantly enhanced the fluvial monitoring capabilities. UASs equipped with advanced sensors enable detailed and precise fluvial monitoring by capturing high-resolution topographic data, generate accurate digital elevation models, and provide imagery of river channels, banks, and riparian zones. These data enable the identification of erosion and deposition patterns, the quantification of sediment transport, the evaluation of habitat quality, and the monitoring of river flows. The latter allows us to understand the dynamics of rivers during various hydrological events, including floods, droughts, and seasonal variations. This manuscript aims to provide an update on the main research themes and topics in the literature on the use of UASs for river monitoring. The latter is achieved through a bibliometric analysis of the publication trends and identifies the field's key themes and collaborative networks. The bibliometric analysis shows trends in the number of publications, number of citations, top contributing countries, top publishing journals, top contributing institutions, and top authors. A total of 1085 publications on UAS monitoring in rivers are identified, published between 1999 and 2023, showing a steady annual growth rate of 24.44%. Bibliographic records are exported from the Web of Science (WoS) database using a comprehensive set of keywords. The bibliometric analysis of the raw data obtained from the WoS database is performed using the R software. The results highlight important trends and valuable insights related to the use of UASs in river monitoring, particularly in the last decade. The most frequently used author keywords outline the core themes of UASs monitoring research and highlight the interdisciplinary nature and collaborative efforts within the field. "River", "topography", "photogrammetry", and "Structure-from-Motion" are the core themes of UASs monitoring research. These findings can guide future research and promote new interdisciplinary collaborations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil erosion monitoring is essential for the ecological evaluation and dynamic monitoring of land resources via remote sensing technology. In this paper, we provide new insights into the existing problems and development directions of traditional models, which are supported by new technologies. An important role is played by remote sensing information acquisition technology in the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of soil erosion, and the data and technical support provided are systematically reviewed. We provide a detailed overview of the research progress associated with empirical statistical models and physically driven process models of soil erosion, and the limitations of their application are also summarized. The preliminary integration of remote sensing data sources with high spatial and temporal resolution and new technologies for soil erosion monitoring enables the high-precision quantitative estimation of sediment transport trajectories, the watershed river network density, and the terrain slope, enhancing the accuracy of erosion factor identification, such as spectral feature recognition from erosion information, gully erosion feature extraction, and vegetation coverage estimation. However, the current erosion models, driven by algorithms and models, are not comprehensive enough, particularly in terms of the spatial feature extraction of erosion information, and there are limitations in the applicability and accurate estimation of such models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quantification of the erodibility of cohesive sediments is fundamental for an advanced understanding of estuarine sediment transport processes. In this study, the surface erosion threshold tc for cohesive sediments collected from two sites in the area of the Port of Hamburg in the River Elbe is investigated in laboratory experiments. An improved closed microcosm system (C-GEMS) is used for the erosion experiments, which allows the accumulation of suspended sediment concentration (SSC) over an experimental run. A total of 34 erosion experiments has been conducted with homogenized samples and bulk densities between 1050 kg/m³ and 1250 kg/m³. The covered range of bulk densities is seen to represent the values commonly exhibited by freshly deposited cohesive sediments. Two approaches to derive tc based on the erosion rate (e-method) and the SSC (SSC-method) were elaborated and compared. For both approaches, only one parameter has to be set in order to facilitate transferability to other devices. The results show a better performance of the SSC-method in terms of lower uncertainties, especially at the upper application limits of the utilized C-GEMS. The application of the SSCmethod yields values for tc between 0.037 N/m² and 0.305 N/m², continuously increasing with bulk density. Repetition tests proved the repeatability of the experimental procedure and utilized methods to derive tc. The derived data for tc is used to fit two mathematical models: i) a highly empirical model relating tc to dry bulk density and ii) a recently proposed model relating tc to the physical properties of the sediment-mixture. While the derived parameters for the first model vary widely for the two sampling sites, the fit-parameter for the lattermodel is virtually independent of the investigated site, suggesting the superiority of this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earth's terrestrial topography evolves in response to the interaction of tectonics, climate, and lithology. Recent discoveries suggest that the grain size of sediments produced on hillslopes and transported through river networks is key to understanding these interactions. Hillslope grain size varies systematically with erosion rate and residence time, the degree of chemical and physical weathering, and the fracture density and susceptibility to weathering of rock. Variations in initial grain size strongly influence the spatial evolution of grain size distributions as particles mix and wear during downstream transport through channel networks. In rivers, the size and flux of the coarse fraction of the sediment load control the rate of incision into bedrock and thus govern channel slope and ultimately the relief of actively eroding landscapes. These relationships suggest that a primary way that tectonics, climate, and lithology influence landscape evolution is through their controls on sediment grain size. Recent research reveals the central role of sediment grain size in controlling bedrock river morphodynamics, linking grain size to channel slope and topographic relief. Tectonics, climate, and lithology govern the size of sediments produced on hillslopes; hence, grain size mediates their influence on landscape evolution. Feedbacks linking sediment grain size, topography, weathering, erosion, and sediment transport provide new opportunities for advances in Earth surface science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mount Meager is a deeply eroded quaternary volcanic complex located in southwestern British Columbia (BC) and is known for its frequent large landslides. In 2010, the south face of Mount Meager collapsed, generating a long-runout debris avalanche that was one of the largest landslides (50 × 106 m3) in Canadian history. Over the past 14 years, the landslide deposit has been reworked by stream action, delivering large amounts of sediment to Lillooet River, just downstream. In this study, we investigate 10 years of geomorphic evolution of the landslide deposit using orthophotos and digital elevation models (DEMs) generated using Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry on aerial photographs acquired during unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) surveys. The SfM products were used to produce a series of precise maps that highlight the geomorphological changes along the lower Meager Creek within the runout area of the landslide. Comparison of DEMs produced from 2010, 2012, 2015, and 2019 imagery allowed us to calculate deposit volume changes related to erosion, transport, and redeposition of landslide material. We estimate that about 1.1 × 106 m3 of sediment was eroded from the landslide deposit over the period 2015–2019. About 5.2 × 105 m3 of that sediment was redeposited inside the study area. About 5.8 × 105 m3 of sediment, mainly sand, silt, and clay, were exported from the study area and are being carried by Lillooet River towards Pemberton, 40 km from Mount Meager, and farther downstream. These remobilized sediments likely reduce the Lillooet River channel capacity and thus increase flood hazards to the communities of Pemberton and Mount Currie. Our study indicates a landslide persistence in the landscape, with an estimated 47-year half-life decay, suggesting that higher flood hazard conditions related to increased sediment supply may last longer than previously estimated. This study shows the value of using SfM in tandem with historic aerial photographs, UAV photos, and high-resolution satellite imagery for determining sediment budgets in fluvial systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reviews research on sediment flux impacts on the receiving estuary, ports, and society in Cartagena, Colombia. The city hosts both the country's largest touristic and coastal industrial sectors and is home to vulnerable coastal communities whose health and livelihoods are impacted by pollution. These marginalized artisanal fishing communities lack basic water and health services but have finally been recognized in a new intersectoral committee for Cartagena Bay's environmental management. To support the governance of these complex socioenvironmental challenges, the Cartagena Bay Observatory has been developed as a scientific tool to monitor the bay's conditions and forecast the effects of future sediment remediation plans. Cartagena Bay receives large freshwater discharges from the Dique Canal, draining from the 260,000 km2 Magdalena River watershed where 80% of the national population resides. This runoff transports sediment loads of 2.3 Mt/year, dispersing large plumes that affect the marine ecosystems and tourism and make the bay one of the Caribbean's largest sediment‐receiving estuaries. Following decades of watershed deforestation and erosion, the upward trending sediment inputs and accretion of the Dique delta have resulted in deposition rates of 1.8 cm/year, and the need for frequent dredging. Mercury dumped by a chemical industry in the 1970s can be found in concentrations as high as 18.8 μg/g buried below the bay's bottom. Mercury has also been found in the bay's biota and human populations, and so the dredging needed for the port's sustainability thereby presents a health risk by allowing this trapped mercury to surface. This article is categorized under:Science of Water > Hydrological ProcessesScience of Water > Water QualityScience of Water > Water and Environmental Change [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposed soils associated with active construction sites provide opportunities for erosion and sediment transport during storm events, introducing risks associated with excess sediment to downstream infrastructure and aquatic biota. A better understanding of the drivers of sediment transport in construction site runoff is needed to improve the design and performance of erosion and sediment control measures (ESCMs). Eleven monitoring locations on 3 active road construction sites in central Ohio were established to characterize runoff quality from points of concentrated flow during storm events. Grab samples were analyzed for total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity, and particle size distribution (PSD). Median TSS concentrations and turbidity levels across all samples were 626 mg/L (range 25–28,600 mg/L) and 759 NTU (range 22–33,000 NTU), respectively. The median PSD corresponded to a silty clay loam, mirroring the soil texture of much of Ohio's subsoils. TSS concentrations and turbidity were significantly positively correlated with the rainfall intensity 10 min prior to sample collection, suggesting that higher flow rates created greater shear stress on bare soil which resulted in more erosion. Conversely, rainfall duration was negatively correlated with particle size, indicating that prolonged moisture from rainfall promoted the dispersion of soil aggregates which mobilized smaller particles. Multivariable linear regression models revealed that higher rainfall intensities corresponded to higher turbidity values, while higher TSS concentrations were associated with higher rainfall intensities, depths, and durations. Results from this study highlight the importance of reducing raindrop impact and subsequent shear stress applied by concentrated flows through the use of ESCMs to limit sediment export from construction sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Gully erosion is the main source of sediment in watersheds, and the assessment of soil erosion and deposition in gully systems is very important for land utilization and watershed management. Soil erosion and sediment transport are multiscale, and the digital elevation model (DEM) is one of the most important means to study the scale effect of soil erosion and deposition. To clarify the effect of DEM cell size on soil erosion and deposition in gullies, a series of DEMs with cell sizes of 0.5, 0.7, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4 and 5 m were generated based on detailed field measurements in dry-hot valley region. Meanwhile, the unit stream power erosion and deposition (USPED) model was chosen to simulate soil erosion and deposition in this study. The results showed that cell size can greatly influence the average slope and aspect of the DEMs, while the accuracy and average elevation of the DEMs were only affected intensively when the cell size exceeds 3 m. As for the spatial distribution pattern of soil erosion and deposition, the increase of the DEM cell size could cause a concentration of soil erosion and deposition in main channels while weakening the occurrence on hillslopes, and the spatial proximity of soil erosion and deposition would not change with the DEM cell size. The highly positive correlation in simulation results for soil erosion and deposition was primarily observed in DEM cell sizes range of 0.5 to 2 m and from 3 to 5 m. Meanwhile, a slight increase in DEM cell size would significantly affect the simulated results of soil erosion and deposition based on the USPED model when DEM cell size ranged from 0.5 to 0.7 m, whereas the change in DEM cell size would not affect the simulation results when DEM cell size was greater than 0.7 m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topography plays a critical role in soil migration and redistribution, but few studies have been conducted to quantify its effects on sediment deposition. In this study, we established a physical simulation and analysis framework to investigate the erosional and depositional impacts of two-dimensional slope terrain, specifically applied to Xiannangou small watershed in the loess hilly region. The results showed that the slope gradient, slope length, and slope shape have significantly influence the distribution of soil erosion and deposition. The magnitude of the erosion/deposition rate (Yr) determines the relative intensity of slope erosion and deposition, where Yr < 0 indicates erosion and Yr > 0 signifies deposition. The erosion rate on straight slope exhibited a positive correlation with slope length, while the erosion/deposition rate on concave and convex slopes exhibited fluctuations with slope length. Soil erosion predominantly occurred along the main flow line and the middle slope, aligning with the observed distribution of gully and slope erosion in the field. The sediment deposition was primarily concentrated on the lower slope or the lowest outlet of the basin, notably in gullies and gentle slopes where the terrain slows, especially during transition from steep to gradual slopes. These results can effectively predict the relative erosion/sedimentation rate of two-dimensional slopes, significantly contributing to a comprehensive understanding of how topography influences soil erosion and deposition. This study thoroughly considers the role of sediment deposition in the soil erosion process, providing a more accurate reflection of soil erosion/deposition in small watersheds. It addresses the existing deficiency in sediment consideration within soil erosion evaluation and supports the enhancement of soil erosion model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding erosion, sediment sources and the spatial distribution along heterogeneous slopes is essential for soil and water conservation. In this study, soils derived from nodular limestone, mud-like limestone and limestone breccia (abbreviated as SMTL, SMDL and SLBC, respectively) were utilized to establish artificial homogeneous and heterogeneous slopes. The homogeneous slopes MTL, MDL and LBC represent SMTL-, SMDL- and SLBC-filled- slopes, respectively. The heterogeneous slopes were abbreviated as MTL/MDL, MDL/LBC and LBC/MTL. Rare earth elements (REEs; lanthanide, cerium and ytterbium) were used to tag soils on the upper and lower slope sections to track sediment transport and deposition. The results showed that for homogeneous slopes, the LBC slope was the most severely eroded, followed by the MDL and MTL slopes. For heterogeneous slopes, the order of erosion was LBC/MTL > MTL/MDL > MDL/LBC. Upslope sections contributed a sizable portion of the total sediment yield, ranging from 51% to 79%. Over time, the difference in the sediment contribution between the upslope and downslope regions decreased and reached equilibrium. Runoff rates on heterogeneous slopes demonstrated an inverse function (R² > 0.75) in contrast to a logarithmic distribution (R² > 0.87) on homogeneous slopes. Heterogeneous slopes displayed minimal intersegment variation and the absence of a consistent ordering of the magnitude of hydraulic parameters. Conversely, the hydraulic parameters of homogeneous slopes were consistently ordered across the slope sections. For sediment transport, all slopes exhibited suspension-dominated flow with percentages greater than 89%. However, the particle size distribution of the sediment of heterogeneous slopes exhibited greater diversity and complexity because of the coexistence of distinct soils. These findings underscore the importance of customized strategies for soil and water conservation in environments characterized by diverse soil parent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal dunes, formed and shaped by aeolian sediment transport, play a crucial role in ecosystem services and act as natural flood and coastal erosion defenses. This paper delves into theoretical equations and numerical models predicting sediment transport. Numerical models like cellular automata, XBeach-DUNA, the coastal dune model, and others are analyzed for their ability to simulate dune morphology, erosion processes, and vegetation impacts accurately. Evaluated are field observation and measurement techniques, such as sand traps, impact sensors, and optical sensors, for their precision in quantifying aeolian dynamics. Further examined is the effectiveness of vegetation and fencing in dune stabilization, noting species-specific responses and the influence of fence design on sediment accumulation. These tools offer insights into optimizing aeolian sediment management for coastal protection. By conducting a systematic review and connecting theoretical, empirical, and modeling findings, this study highlights the complex challenge of measuring and managing aeolian sediment transport and proposes integrated strategies for enhancing coastal dune resilience against the backdrop of climate change and erosion. This study's objectives to bridge gaps in current understanding are met, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary approach to coastal dune management and conservation, especially combining wind- and wave-driven processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological changes in estuaries are typically discussed on decadal time scales, with reported changes often exceed several decimeters. In our study, we utilized refined in-situ data to investigate bed-level changes and rapid accretion-erosion transitions during tidal cycles off the Changjiang Estuary. A field study employing a high-resolution bottom tripod system was conducted, measuring various parameters such as water level, waves, velocity profiles, nearbottom suspended sediment concentration (SSC), and bed level changes over ten tidal cycles. Our findings reveal significant and intense bed level changes occurring at the scale of tidal cycles. The data suggests that downward sediment transport plays a dominant role in the overall accretion tendency throughout the study period. Additionally, our research introduces a dynamic critical bed shear stress that increases during tidal cycles, deviating from fixed values. We also present a new quadrant analysis method to elucidate the primary processes controlling near-bed sediment transport. The results highlight the importance of horizontal advective sediment transport in frequent accretion-erosion transitions at tidal-cycle timescales. This implies a frequent exchange of sediment between adjacent shoals and channels in the seaward region of the North Channel in the Changjiang Estuary, which holds significance for future navigation and construction management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field reconnaissance has difficulty in providing information on topographic features of debris flow in vegetation-covered mountain regions. The study used drone-captured multispectral imaging, digital terrain models, and geomorphic indices to investigate the sources and erosion patterns of gravelly debris flows in mountainous areas. Geomorphic indices, including the topographic wetness index (TWI), stream power index (SPI), sediment transport index, terrain ruggedness index (TRI), and the vegetation index normal differential water index (NDWI), were used to identify key topographic and hydraulic characteristics that contribute to the initiation of gravelly debris flows. The analysis revealed that the debris flows originated from the softening of yellow soil and the dislodging of gravel in loess areas, both induced by surficial water infiltration. Areas with high TWI and SPI values were vulnerable to erosion from surficial water, leading to the formation of erosion gullies. Likewise, regions with high TWI and NDWI values were likely starting points for upstream landslides. Conversely, areas characterized by low TWI and TRI values but high NDWI were prone to downstream sediment deposition. Drone-based multispectral imaging, augmented by geomorphic and vegetation indices, effectively captures the characteristics of vegetation-covered areas, thereby enhancing debris flow field investigations in an inaccessible mountain area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study identifies and summarizes potential risks to operations, regulatory compliance, supply chains, and infrastructure of the electric power industry from changing surface water conditions resulting from global climate change. The results help inform companies/utilities seeking to incorporate climate change risk in their planning and decision‐making processes by ranking risk severity and likelihood of occurrence on both a regional basis and by risk receptor. The assessment includes identification of potential risks to: (1) thermal generating, (2) hydroelectric, (3) land‐based renewable generating, and (4) transmission and distribution assets. These risks may result from such projected changes as reduced water availability (e.g., for hydroelectric or once‐through cooling), increased water temperatures (e.g., decrease in cooling efficiency, inability to meet discharge permit conditions), increased flood severity (e.g., increased streambank erosion and/or damage to river‐adjacent infrastructure), and decreased water quality (e.g., from increased transport of sediment and dissolved solids). The potential risks identified from this qualitative risk‐assessment are documented in a graphical format depicting both severity and likelihood. This approach allows for comparison of risks across a portfolio and for future prioritization of adaptation strategies. A total of 32 risks were identified in the study, including nine risks to infrastructure, six risks to operations, four risks to supply chain, and 13 environmental/regulatory risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Laurentide Ice Sheet's (LIS) interior had a dynamic polythermal base, but the spatiotemporal variations of subglacial processes related to ice divide migration and other transient changes remain largely unknown, limiting our understanding of regional glacial dynamics. Previous studies focused on the regional glacial landform record, while ice sheet models lacked detailed parameterization within these regions, leading to an overestimation of cold-based subglacial conditions' extent and duration. In this study, glacial sediment dispersal patterns as identified by heavy minerals, clasts, and multivariate statistics of till matrix geochemistry were used to assess ice sheet dynamics within the Quebec–Labrador sector of the LIS. The earliest ice-flow phase produced and transported till across the study area (>175 km). However, major oxide data from till matrix geochemistry show a correlation with underlying bedrock, and this relationship is relatively common in areas of thin till cover and resistant bedrock lithologies. These results suggest a switch from an early phase of widespread erosion and long, sustained sediment transport to one of more limited erosion, perhaps abrasion dominant and shorter transport. Till compositional data and related dispersal patterns add supporting evidence to earlier ice sheet reconstructions based on ice-flow indicators and 10Be data together suggesting a transition from widespread uniform warm-based conditions during the earliest ice flow, followed by the development of an ice divide, its migration, and more sporadic warm-based conditions. Consequently, a thorough understanding of ice-flow history is essential for ice sheet modelling and future mineral exploration programs in inner ice sheet regions of the LIS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most beautiful beaches in Northern Vietnam, Nhat Le, has recently experienced severe erosion as a result of the ensemble interaction of natural factors, such as tropical cyclones, extreme weather events, and human activities. Consequently, negative impacts on tourism and social and economic development have been recorded. This paper aims to provide a deep understanding of the changes in shoreline and longshore sediment transport at Nhat Le estuary based on two modules of LITDRIFT and LITLINE of the LITPACK software package combined with geospatial analysis. The rate of change statistics is calculated using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) from 30-year multi-temporal satellite data (1989-2019) for multiple historical shoreline positions. The Module of LITDRIFT is employed to estimate sediment transport and the shoreline position calculated from the LITLINE module. These data are then compared with measured topographic data and satellite images. Wave climate conditions are incorporated into the LITDRIFT module to identify the volume of sediment transport along the coast on seasonal and annual bases. The results illustrate that a mean erosion rate of about 2 m per year was observed in the southern sandspit of Nhat Le from 1989 to 2019. This rate reaches 4.5 m per year during 2009-2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developed barrier systems (barrier islands and spits) are lowering and narrowing with sea‐level rise (SLR) such that habitation will eventually become infeasible or prohibitively expensive for most communities in its current form. Before reaching this state, choices will be made to modify the natural and built environment to reduce relatively short‐term risk. These choices will likely vary substantially even along the same developed barrier system as these landscapes are rarely uniformly managed alongshore. Building on the results from a companion paper, here we use a new modeling framework to investigate the complexities in barrier system dynamics that emerge as a function of alongshore variability in management strategies, accelerations in SLR, and changes in storm intensity and frequency. Model results suggest that when connected through alongshore sediment transport, barriers with alongshore variable management strategies—here, the construction of dunes and wide beaches to protect either roadways or communities—evolve differently than they would in the absence of alongshore connections. Shoreline stabilization by communities in one location influences neighboring areas managed solely for roadways, inducing long‐term system‐wide lags in shoreline retreat. Conversely, when barrier segments managed for roadways are allowed to overwash, this induces shoreline curvature system‐wide, thus enhancing erosion on nearby stabilized segments. Feedbacks between dunes, storms, overwash flux, and alongshore sediment transport also affect outcomes of climate adaptation measures. In the case of partial, early abandonment of roadway management, we find that system‐wide transitions to less vulnerable landscape states are possible, even under accelerated SLR and increased storminess. Plain Language Summary: Because humans inhabit barrier islands and spits (collectively referred to as "barriers") these landscapes, that would otherwise naturally change shape in response to storms and sea‐level rise (SLR), are influenced by efforts to protect development with wide beaches and tall dunes. These features interfere with a process called overwash, which transports sand landward during storms, building barrier elevation relative to sea level. Here, we use a new model to better understand how these interactions influence the habitability of barriers over time. Our simulations show that different management decisions made for adjacent coastal segments affect each other in positive and negative ways. When communities nourish beaches, adjacent to segments managed for roadways, some nourished sand reaches the adjacent segments, reducing shoreline erosion there. Conversely, portions of barriers that are managed only for roadways allow some overwash to reach the barrier interior; this negatively affects neighboring communities by enhancing their shoreline erosion rates. We find that early abandonment of dune management along portions of barriers may prevent highly vulnerable future states, such as barrier drowning. As communities explore choices for climate adaptation, our findings reveal the importance of coordination among decision makers in adjacent communities to avoid undesirable outcomes. Key Points: When management strategies vary alongshore, their effects are coupled via alongshore sediment redistribution, influencing barrier evolutionBeach nourishment (along portions of barriers) induces system‐wide lags in shoreline retreat, even decades after nourishment practices ceaseMore overwash (due to lower dunes or increased storminess) can prolong habitability, but drives increased nourishment frequency elsewhere [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The progressive reservoir construction and operation have led to nonstationary sediment load response to water discharge and a new equilibrium between sediment supply and transport of a river system. However, an increase in the reservoir impoundments on the nonstationary behaviors could demonstrate significant temporal variability over the river system. In this study, the statistical relationships of annual sediment load with both streamflow and reservoir storage capacity during 1956–2018 are analyzed in the Upper Yangtze River Basin (UYRB), China. The trend and abrupt detection analyses show that the significant departure of annual sediment load to annual water discharge occurs only when the cumulative storage capacity over the course of progressive impoundments reaches a critical value for the cascade reservoirs in UYRB. The critical storage capacity gradually appeared in the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, accounting for the sharp increases of small- and medium-sized reservoirs in the tributaries and large-sized reservoirs in the mainstem. Once the critical storage is exceeded, the capacity to trap sediment increases exponentially with the cumulative storage. The significant increase of trapped sediment (e.g., 26%–88% of the free-flow capacity in the tributary and mainstem stations) has led to the shift of sediment-controlling factors from water discharge to the impounded runoff index. The significant reduction of sediment transportation and the altered dominant factors of sediment load could result in the steady erosion of channels and coastlines and adversely impact ecosystems in the downstream Yangtze River. Human activities, especially dam construction, have severely altered the global river system. Dams disrupt the continuity of the river, inevitably altering the natural transport of sediment and reducing sediment loads. Since the 19th century, a large number of reservoirs have been built in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River where water resources are abundant. When the cumulative storage capacity over the course of progressive impoundments reaches a critical value for the cascade reservoirs in the Upper Yangtze River, the capacity for trapping sediment increases exponentially with the cumulative storage. The significant increase in trapped sediment has led to a shift of sediment-controlling factors. The significant reduction of sediment transportation and the altered dominant factors of sediment load could lead to several environmental problems, such as the limited availability of nutrients in the middle and lower reaches, river bed erosion, and the destruction of benthic habitat. The change in the relationship between sediment, water discharge, and reservoir capacity can provide a reference for the environmental management and protection of the Yangtze River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tidal flats are accumulations of fine-grained sediment formed under the action of tides and play a very important role in coastal protection. The northern part of Jiangsu coast, as a typical example of muddy coasts found all over the world, has experienced serious erosion since the Yellow River shifted northward, and the range of erosion has been gradually extending southward, now reaching the south of the Sheyang River estuary (SYRE). In order to address coastal erosion near the SYRE through protective measures, there is an urgent need for research on the spatial and temporal variation of coastal erosion processes and their control mechanisms in the SYRE and adjacent coastal areas. For this study, the tidal flats on the south side of the SYRE were selected as the study area, and the sediment dynamics in the upper and lower intertidal flat were observed in different seasons to investigate the erosion processes and their dynamic mechanisms. The results show that the tidal current and wave action in the observed intertidal flats are stronger in winter than in summer, and these intertidal flats erode under the combined action of waves and currents. During winter, the net transport of the near-bottom suspended sediment and bedload is primarily towards the southeast, while in summer, the direction tends toward the north and northeast. The net transport fluxes are larger in the lower part of the intertidal flat than in the upper part in summer and also larger in winter than in summer within the lower intertidal flat. Furthermore, the tidal flat erosion in the study area manifests as shoreline retreat and flat surface erosion. The average shoreline retreat rate increased from 23.3 m/a during 2014–2019 to 43.5 m/a during 2019–2021, and the average erosion depth of the lower and upper parts of the intertidal flat over a tidal cycle is, respectively, 1.98 cm and 0.24 cm in winter and 1.65 cm and 0.26 cm in summer. The ratio of the wave-induced bottom shear stress to the tidal current-induced bottom shear stress is 0.40~0.46 in the lower intertidal flat and increases to 0.66~0.67 in the upper intertidal flat, indicating that the intertidal flat erosion in the study area is primarily driven by tidal currents, with significant contributions from wave action, especially in the upper intertidal flat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As climate warms, hydrology and geomorphology in glacierized catchments are evolving, changing sediment export from these catchments, thus impacting downstream ecosystems and communities. Currently, much uncertainty persists regarding interactions among geomorphic processes that evacuate sediment from glacierized catchments. Here, we present a catchment‐scale numerical model of subglacial and proglacial sediment transport with debris meltout processes. We apply the model in a Monte Carlo framework to suspended sediment data collected over 2014–2020 from the Fieschertal catchment in the Swiss Alps, assessing possible combinations of geomorphic processes responsible for suspended sediment discharge. The ensemble of model outputs quantifies the interaction of different geomorphic processes, including the trade‐off between bedrock erosion and sediment previously stored in the catchment. Model runs suggest that, at some periods, up to 20% of the sediment leaving the glacier is deposited in the proglacial area relative to the catchment's total sediment discharge. This shows that the model captures the proglacial area change from sediment source to sediment sink in different hydrological and glaciological conditions. Furthermore, the findings highlight the impact of glacier retreat on the catchment's sediment dynamics, which both reduces the proglacial area's slope and introduces additional sediment to the proglacial area through debris meltout. The model outputs and the parameters quantify the interaction among geomorphic processes, yielding key insights into the drivers of sediment transport in alpine regions. The implications of these interactions are discussed in the context of interpreting processes responsible for controlling erosion rates from glacierized regions and modeling sediment transport in glacierized catchments. Key Points: We present a numerical model of sediment transport in a glacierized catchment and apply it to a 7‐year record of suspended sediment exportMonte Carlo application of the physically‐based model demonstrates the importance of different geomorphic processesModel outputs show the interactions amongst sediment mobilization and deposition, and debris meltout in the catchment's sediment discharge [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest roadside ditch lines capture and redirect road runoff and typically have erosion control treatments installed therein. Existing methods used to determine the effectiveness of roadside ditch line erosion control treatments estimate fixed fractional reductions in sediment yield. However, fixed fractional reductions do not describe dependence on any measurable physical property of treatment, climate, and the environment. Here, we use additional flow roughness induced by erosion control treatments as a metric that can be used as the basis of estimating treatment effectiveness in varying contexts. We investigate its utility in small‐scale field experiments in western Washington. We measured the physical characteristics of each ditch (e.g., shape, soil texture, and slope) and flow velocities and sediment concentrations for each treatment under multiple experimental discharges. We then used the concept of shear stress partitioning to relate sediment yield from the ditch line erosion treatments to grain shear stress, which is a function of flow roughness (Manning's n) of the respective treatment. We found that (1) a given erosion control treatment produced consistent Manning's n values across multiple replications and sites, with a bare ditch (no treatment) yielding the lowest roughness (n = 0.05) and a densely wattled ditch yielding the highest roughness (n = 0.75); (2) sediment load and calculated grain shear stress data yielded a single positive relationship when data from each experiment were combined, which suggests the effect of additional roughness on grain shear stress is a main driver in the reduction of ditch line sediment load; and (3) in our dataset, fractional erosion reduction had a variable and nonlinear sensitivity to low flow rates (99% of observed flows) for lower roughnesses. Our results demonstrate how additional flow roughness can be used as a general metric to help evaluate the effectiveness of ditch line erosion control treatments for a variety of physical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to analyze the impact of implemented erosion control works (ECW) on soil erosion intensity in the watershed of the Ćelije reservoir (Rasina River) in the period between 1968 and 2022. The Erosion Potential Method was used to calculate the annual gross erosion (W), sediment transport (G), and erosion coefficient (Z) in the study area. As a result of the performed ECW there was a general decreasing trend in the intensity of soil erosion processes in the last 54 years. The specific annual gross erosion was 1189.12 m3/km−2/year−1 in 1968, while in 2022 it was 554.20 m3/km−2/year−1. The specific sediment transport was 540.18 m3/km−2/year−1 in 1968 and 253.55 m3/km−2/year−1 in 2022. Due to the changes in the intensity of erosion processes, the specific annual gross erosion decreased by 634.92 m3/km−2/year−1 and the specific sediment transport decreased by 286.63 m3/km−2/year−1. The erosion coefficient was reduced from Z = 0.62 to Z = 0.35. A dependence between the slope of siltation and the natural bed slope was defined. The results show a significant correlation between erosion intensity and performed ECW, providing a basis for future watershed management and defining a strategy for soil erosion control in the Ćelije reservoir watershed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Inner Mongolia section of the Yellow River is a primary alluvial segment of the main channel. The variations in water and sediment not only alter the cross-sectional morphology and flow capacity of the river but also impact the scheduling of upstream cascade reservoirs. Based on runoff and sediment load data and topographic information from typical hydrological stations, the characteristics of runoff and sediment load variations and the evolutionary pattern of siltation in the Inner Mongolia River section were analyzed via trend analysis methods, Mann–Kendall test methods, the sediment load transport rate method, and the water level–flow relationship. The results showed that the water and sediment loads at the hydrological stations in the Inner Mongolia River section significantly changed from the 1960s to after 2000, with runoff decreasing by approximately 22% to 32% and the sediment load decreasing by approximately 65% to 73%. Sedimentation in the river section generally increased, and the average annual siltation amount reached 0.144 billion t. The joint utilization of the Longyangxia and Liujiaxia reservoirs in 1987 was the main reason for the rapid increase in siltation, and siltation in the Inner Mongolia River section was slightly reduced after 2005. In addition, the critical sediment load coefficients of the Bayangaole–Sanhuhekou and Sanhuhekou–Toudaoguai River sections were 0.0073 and 0.0051 kg·s/m6, respectively, from 1952 to 1968, and 0.0053 and 0.0037 kg·s/m6, respectively, from 1969 to 2020. This study could provide technical support for river flood control and reservoir water sediment regulation in Inner Mongolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sediment fluxes to the seafloor govern the fate of elements and compounds in the ocean and serve as a prerequisite for research on elemental cycling, benthic processes and sediment management strategies. To quantify these fluxes over seafloor areas, it is necessary to scale up sediment mass accumulation rates (MAR) obtained from multiple sample stations. Conventional methods for spatial upscaling involve averaging of data or spatial interpolation. However, these approaches may not be sufficiently precise to account for spatial variations of MAR, leading to poorly constrained regional sediment budgets. Here, we utilize a machine learning approach to scale up porosity and 210Pb data from 145 and 65 stations, respectively, in the Skagerrak. The models predict the spatial distributions by considering several predictor variables that are assumed to control porosity and 210Pb rain rates. The spatial distribution of MAR is based on the predicted porosity and existing sedimentation rate data. Our findings reveal highest MAR and 210Pb rain rates to occur in two parallel belt structures that align with the general circulation pattern in the Skagerrak. While high 210Pb rain rates occur in intermediate water depths, the belt of high MAR is situated closer to the coastlines due to lower porosities at shallow water depths. Based on the spatial distributions, we calculate a total MAR of 34.7 Mt yr-1 and a 210Pb rain rate of 4.7 · 1014 dpm yr-1. By comparing atmospheric to total 210Pb rain rates, we further estimate that 24% of the 210Pb originates from the local atmospheric input, with the remaining 76% being transported laterally into the Skagerrak. The updated MAR in the Skagerrak is combined with literature data on other major sediment sources and sinks to present a tentative sediment budget for the North Sea, which reveals an imbalance with sediment outputs exceeding the inputs. Substantial uncertainties in the revised Skagerrak MAR and the literature data might close this imbalance. However, we further hypothesize that previous estimates of suspended sediment inputs into the North Sea might have been underestimated, considering recently revised and elevated estimates on coastal erosion rates in the surrounding region of the North Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human-induced shoreline instability is a widespread issue among the world's Mega Deltas. Out of 120 million tons/year of sediment, 30 million tons/year reached Damietta promontory before the entire operation of Aswan High Dam (AHD), which blocks most of that sediment. This study uses remote sensing techniques to investigate the Land Use Land Cover Changes (LULCC) and the shoreline dynamics around Damietta promontory. In addition, more attention was devoted to the challenges of Damietta Harbour, which regularly suffers from inlet closure using a filed validated morpho-dynamic model addressing sediment transport and erosion problem at the eastern part. The LULCC based Maximum Likelihood approach shows that the developed areas were doubled from 1984 to 2018. Besides, within the Area of Interest (AoI), 8.961 km2 were eroded during the period (1984–2000), while 2.7046 km2 were eroded during (2000–2018). Change detection technique showed that accretion area was 1.8991 and 2.4909 km2 for the periods 1984–2000 and 2000–2018, respectively. Six scenarios were tested to investigate the best combinations of interventions to mitigate the challenge of siltation inside the harbour entrance and the erosion at the eastern side. Morphodynamical results showed that scenario 4 (two groins each 1000 m length at the west side of the western jetty combined with two groins each 500 m length at the east side of the existing eastern jetty of the harbour) has considered the best scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We described source and phosphorus (P) retention potential of soft, fine-grained, streambed sediment and associated phosphorus (sed-P) during summer low-flow conditions. Combining in-channel, sed-P storage with relative age provided context on relevance to western Lake Erie Basin management goals. Methods: In 2019, rapid geomorphic assessment (30 reaches) compared streambed-sediment storage (S) to streambank erosion (E), providing annual sediment budgets (S:E). Streambed sediment (13 reaches) was fingerprinted and analyzed for sed-P. The P saturation ratio (PSR; four reaches) quantified potential sorption/desorption of dissolved P (DP) between the water column and streambed sediment. Analyses were supplemented with data from 2017 and 2021. The ratio of two fallout radionuclides, beryllium-7 (54-day half-life) and excess lead-210 (22.3 years), apportioned "new" sediment based on time since rainfall contact. Results: Streambed sediment was mostly streambank (54–96%) for contributing areas > 2.7 km2; for upstream reaches, a larger percentage was apportioned as upland (cropland, pasture, forest, and road), with < 30% streambank. Streambank erosion correlated with contributing area; however, soil type (ecoregion), stream characteristics, and land use combined to drive streambed-sediment storage. Individual-reach S:E (accumulation of 0.01–35 years of streambank erosion) differentiated erosional and depositional in-channel environments. Most reaches indicated that 17–57% of sediment had recent contact with rainfall. Streambed-sediment PSR indicated a low potential for further sorption of DP from the water column; one reach was a P source when sampled. Conclusion: Sed-P was higher in streambed sediment than in source samples, which varied by land use and ecoregion. This indicates homogenization resulting from in-stream sorption of DP during sediment transport that occurs over multiple events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Releasing experimental floods as part of environmental flow programs aims to restore river beds by moving and restoring sediments to improve hydromorphological conditions of the river. However, it remains a challenge to understand how flood release characteristics affect channel morphology, sediment transport, and hydrodynamics. In this study, field surveys and a 2D hydro‐morphodynamic and sediment transport numerical model were used to determine how differences in flood magnitude and falling limb alter hydrogeomorphic conditions within a 4 km reach of the lower Spöl River. The model was constrained by drone flight‐derived high‐resolution digital elevation models and two field‐measured flood releases. The highest flood magnitude of 40 m3/s resulted in 2,700 m3 of total sediment transport, 2,000 m3 of net total volumetric change and 16 900 m2 more wetted area after the flood. The same flood, simulated with an increase in falling limb slope, resulted in a decrease in the duration of full sediment mobility and a corresponding reduction of 8% in net total volumetric change and 5.3% in the total wetted area. Contrastingly, the lowest flood magnitude of 25 m3/s produced 130% lower total sediment transport, 105% lower net total volumetric changes and 10% less wetted area after the flood. Overall, we show that hydro‐morphodynamic modelling of river erosion and deposition combined with spatially rich topographic datasets are extremely useful in forming designed environmental flood scenarios to optimise sediment transport and thus hydrogeomorphic changes to set environmental flows. We contend that scenario modelling is necessary to help water managers optimise the amount of water allocated to environmental flows and to simultaneously restore and maintain riverine dynamics in heavily modified rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of changes in storm wave height and water level on beach response in a medium-scale wave flume. A schematic storm was simulated (rising, apex, and waning phases). A non-intrusive photogrammetric method was used to collect high-resolution and synchronous data regarding the free surface water elevation and bed level, from which shoreline location, sandbar position, cross-shore sediment transport rates, and nonlinear wave parameters were derived. The cross-shore sediment transport was in agreement with previous laboratory measurements, including the monotonous exchange from foreshore erosion to shoaling zone accretion in most stages of the storm simulation. The surf zone was the main region supplying sediment for beach morphology modification and sandbar generation. The degree of storm erosion was not completely determined by the largest wave height and water level or the cumulative wave power of the apex phase. The largest gradients of the wave parameter sequence change occurred in the rising phase, and this was the main factor generating efficient beachface erosion. It induced an increase in sandbar size, accompanied by the cross-shore motion of maximum velocity amplitude, more violent disturbances of wave nonlinearity, and increased surf zone erosion, with these factors increasing beach instability and leading to more severe storm erosion. The large wave height and water level resulted in shoreline retreat, with a more significant swash zone erosion under a higher runup. The offshore sediment transport turned toward the onshore direction as the original large sandbar deteriorated under the decreasing wave parameter sequence in the waning phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sandy beaches high in recreation value make up 16% of the over 4000 km long shoreline of Estonia. The shore processes associated with climate change have remarkably accelerated over recent decades. Many sandy shores have suffered from strong erosion, including an excellent former beach at Valgeranna. The jetties, which were built in the 1860s to protect the navigation channel of Port Pärnu from clogging, have prevented natural sediment transport along the coast from south to north. At the same time, the sandy beach in Pärnu is expanding, and part of the sand accumulates with strong storms also in between the jetties, reducing the width of the shipping channel. The channel needs regular dredging, but, so far, the dredged sediment has been taken far away to the open sea and accumulated on the seabed. The current paper addresses the possibilities of using that sand for beach restoration in destructed and eroded areas. An overview of the applied methods and measurements during field studies is given. The results of modelling the processes of wave activity and sediment transport are discussed. The recycling of shore sediments is an important measure in sustainable coastal zone management. Different options and scenarios are analysed in order to find the most reasonable ways to bring sand back onto beaches and stabilize natural processes. Support from the state by working out respective laws and regulations would be motivating as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The battering of bedrock by bedload collisions is the primary mechanism by which bedrock rivers erode and landscapes evolve. The energy imparted via impacts acts to detach bedrock via the growth and intersection of surface fractures. We present impact experiments designed to test the influence of particle impact energy on bedrock erosion rates. We found that erosional efficiency increased with increasing impact energy. Notably, these increases in efficiency are not captured by a widely‐used mechanistic bedrock erosion model. Observed increases in erosional efficiency were linked with enhanced elastic energy dissipation captured by differences in the coefficient of restitution. We suggest that this increase in energy dissipation is indicative of enhanced crack extension for high velocity impacts. Our experiments indicate a clear energy‐dependence for bedrock detachment processes that is not yet captured by bedrock incision models but may be integrated into long‐term erosion rates and landscape evolution.

Faceted topographies at normal faults have been studied for more than a century. Since the dip angle of the facets is typically much lower than the dip angle of the fault, it is clear that the facets are not just the exhumed footwall, but have been eroded considerably. It has also been shown that a constant erosion rate in combination with a constant rate of displacement can explain the occurrence of planar facets. Quantitatively, however, the formation of faceted topographies is still not fully understood. In this study, the shared stream-power model for fluvial erosion and sediment transport is used in combination with a recently published extension for hillslopes. As a major theoretical result, it is found that the ratio of the tangent of the facet angle and the dip angle of the fault as well as the ratio of baseline length and horizontal width of perfect triangular facets mainly depends on the ratio of the horizontal rate of displacement and the hillslope erodibility. Numerical simulations reveal that horizontal displacement is crucial for the formation of triangular facets. For vertical faults, facets are rather polygonal and much longer than wide. While the sizes of individual facets vary strongly, the average size is controlled by the ratio of hillslope erodibility and fluvial erodibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2021 Navalacruz wildfire occurred in a mountainous area in the Sistema Central (Spain). Despite having an average low severity index (dNBR), the loss of vegetation cover associated with the fire was responsible for a high rate of sedimentation in the rivers and streams. Additionally, the burned area affected up to 60 cultural heritage sites, including archaeological and ethnological sites, and damage ranged from burnt pieces of wood to the burial of archaeological sites. In the present work, we document and analyze the post-fire evolution in several rivers and streams. This is based on a field survey of infiltration rates, hydrodynamic modeling, and the study of channel morphological changes. Our analysis revealed how the first post-fire rains caused the mobilization and transport of ashes. This created hydrophobicity in the soils, resulting in large amounts of materials being transported to rivers and streams by subsequent medium- and low-magnitude storms. A hydrological and hydraulic model of the study catchments under pre- and post-fire conditions suggests that these trends are a consequence of a post-fire increase in flow rates for similar rainfall scenarios. In this respect, our estimates point at a significant increase in sediment transport capacities associated with this post-fire increase in flow rates. The combination of locally steep slopes with high-severity fire patches, and a considerable regolith (derived from pre-fire weathering), resulted in a series of cascading responses, such as an exacerbated supply of sand to the drainage network and the triggering of debris flows, followed by erosion and entrenchment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuarine sediment transport is driven by the combined action of a multitude of influencing factors, including astronomical tides, waves dynamics, and river discharges. This study focuses on the effects of wave forces on sediment transport patterns in micro-tidal estuaries near Wanbao Beach, China. Numerical simulations are carried out using Delft3D. Modeling scenarios are configured using different wave characteristics, spanning from typical waves to those with a return period of 50 years. Results show that waves have a positive effect on landward sediment transport, resulting a larger active range of sediment. By comparing the spatial geomorphic variations under varying wave conditions, we find that modifications in significant wave height (Hs) primarily impact the position of erosion and deposition zones, whereas alterations in spectral peak period (Tp) predominantly influence the magnitude of these changes. The finding is further demonstrated by a comparison of residual currents under different wave intensities. Analysis of sediment transport rates in different transects indicates that the sediment transport rate is highest at the mouth transects and lowest at the alongshore transects. Moreover, variations in sediment transport rates exhibit distinctive patterns between the two outlet transects, even when subjected to identical wave conditions. The disparities are attributed to differences in runoff and the topographical features in proximity to the estuaries. Additionally, we find the sediment transport rate becomes insensitive to the variations in Hs when Hs is larger than a threshold value. The threshold decreases with increasing Tp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]