Floodplain ManagementSESSION 3
Stream Systems on
Dynamic Earth
Glaciation & Erosion Processes
Prepared By
Donald R. Reichmuth, PhD.
Glacial & Erosion Framework
Objectives:• Glacial conditions in North America for the
last 30,000 years affect river basins and floodplains
• Rates and processes of erosion, transport, and deposition
• The production and movement of sediment by the agents/processes of erosion -- water, ice, gravity, and wind
• Case study team assignments
Glaciation & Surface Processes
• Glaciation• Alpine Glaciers• Continental Glaciers
• Geomorphology• Surface Forming Processes
– Water– Ice– Gravity– Wind
Pleistocene Glaciation
Note:• Alpine Glaciers
• Continental Glaciers
• Ice Marginal Rivers
• Alaska Ice Free Area
Western Glacial Lakes
15,000 B.P.
– Climate Much Wetter Than Present
– Large Basins Had Internal Drainage
Sea Level Changes
16,000 Years BP -- 120 Meters Lower
6,000 Years BP – Reached Present Level
Near Future – Expected To Rise
Erosion In River Basins
Controlling Factors:• Chemical vs. Mechanical Weathering
– Temperature– Precipitation
• Basin Gradient• Basin Soil/Bedrock Type• Tectonic Activity
Slide Presentation Prepared By
Geomax, P.C.Dr. Donald R. Reichmuth, President
1023 W. 30th Ave.Spokane, WA 99203-1324
Phone & FAX – 509-838-6390E-mail – [email protected]
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