The course covers the learning outcomes and goals related to understanding the hydrologic cycle, river systems, drainage patterns, stream velocity, streamflow, erosion, deposition, and flood control.
Individual skills and tools taught include analyzing the influence of channel shape on stream velocity, identifying different types of landforms formed by running water, and evaluating engineering efforts for flood control.
The teaching method involves exploring various online resources such as USGS Freshwater and EPA Water Resources, along with studying the syllabus topics related to stream channels, floodplains, and erosion processes.
The intended audience for this course includes students, researchers, and professionals interested in gaining knowledge about the dynamics of running water and its impact on the environment.
Overview
Syllabus
Intro
Earth as a System: The Hydrologic Cycle
Mississippi River Drainage Basin
River Systems
Drainage Patterns
Influence of Channel Shape on Stream Velocity
Streamflow
Longitudinal Profile of a Stream
Channel Changes from Head to Mouth
The Work of Running Water
Suspended Load
Potholes Due to Erosion
Formation of a Delta
Growth of the Mississippi River Delta
Depositional Landforms
Formation of a Natural Levee
Alluvial Fan in Death Valley
Formation of Cut Banks and Point Bars
Formation of an Oxbow Lake
Stream Channels Alluvial Channels - Braided channels
Braided Stream
Shaping Stream Valleys • Base level - Lowest point a stream can erode to
Base Levels
V-shaped Valley of the Yellowstone River
Erosional Floodplain Development
Shaping Stream Valleys • Characteristics of wide valleys
Meander Loop on the Colorado River
Mississippi River Flood of 1993
Floods and Flood Control • Flash floods - Occur with little to no warning
Flash Floods in Vermont
Floods and Flood Control • Engineering efforts
Taught by
Sven Holbik
