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Automated identification of stream-channel geomorphic features from high‑resolution digital elevation models in West Tennessee watersheds

Scientific Investigations Report 2016-5141
Prepared in cooperation with the Southwest Tennessee Development District
By:  and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20165141

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Abstract

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.

Suggested Citation

Cartwright, J.M., and Diehl, T.H., 2017, Automated identification of stream-channel geomorphic features from high‑resolution digital elevation models in West Tennessee watersheds: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2016–5141, 44 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20165141.

ISSN: 2328-0328 (online)

ISSN: 2328-031X (print)

Study Area

Table of Contents

  • Abstract
  • Introduction
  • Methods of Study
  • Evaluation of Automated Tools for Geomorphic Feature Identification
  • Summary and Conclusions
  • References Cited
  • Glossary
  • Appendix 1. Prospectus for Tool Application to Larger Geographic Areas
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Automated identification of stream-channel geomorphic features from high‑resolution digital elevation models in West Tennessee watersheds
Series title Scientific Investigations Report
Series number 2016-5141
DOI 10.3133/sir20165141
Year Published 2017
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center
Description Report: viii, 44 p.
Country United States
State Tennessee
Online Only (Y/N) N
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