Depths inferred from velocities estimated by remote sensing: A flow resistance equation-based approach to mapping multiple river attributes at the reach scale

Remote Sensing
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Abstract

Remote sensing of flow conditions in stream channels could facilitate hydrologic data collection, particularly in large, inaccessible rivers. Previous research has demonstrated the potential to estimate flow velocities in sediment-laden rivers via particle image velocimetry (PIV). In this study, we introduce a new framework for also obtaining bathymetric information: Depths Inferred from Velocities Estimated by Remote Sensing (DIVERS). This approach is based on a flow resistance equation and involves several assumptions: steady, uniform, one-dimensional flow and a direct proportionality between the velocity estimated at a given location and the local water depth, with no lateral transfer of mass or momentum. As an initial case study, we performed PIV and inferred depths from videos acquired from a helicopter hovering at multiple waypoints along a large river in central Alaska. The accuracy of PIV-derived velocities was assessed via comparison to field measurements and the performance of an optimization-based approach to DIVERS specification of roughness

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Depths inferred from velocities estimated by remote sensing: A flow resistance equation-based approach to mapping multiple river attributes at the reach scale
Series title Remote Sensing
DOI 10.3390/rs13224566
Volume 13
Issue 22
Year Published 2021
Language English
Publisher MDPI
Contributing office(s) WMA - Integrated Modeling and Prediction Division
Description 4566, 34 p.
Country United States
State Alaska
City Fairbanks
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