Watershed fragmentation in Coastal Plain Rivers

Changing fluvial systems

Auteur(s) et Affiliation(s)



Description :
This study explores the origin of 15 small coastal watersheds (SCWs) confined entirely to the lower Coastal Plain, which lie between the watersheds of the major rivers flowing across the Texas Coastal Plain. The relationship between SCWs and larger rivers was examined to determine whether the SCWs developed independently of the larger rivers, or became separated from them due to drowning of confluences by sea level rise or watershed fragmentation avulsions. None of the SCWs show evidence of developing independently of larger drainages. Avulsions are generally common in the study area, but for a channel shift to result in watershed fragmentation 3 conditions must occur. First, a successful avulsion (i.e., the new channel becomes dominant) must occur, involving the entire reach from the avulsion site to the river mouth. Second, hydraulic connection between the newer and older channels must be lost. Third, the abandoned channel must receive sufficient tributary input or upland run-off to maintain its path to the coast and avoid infilling.


Type de document :
Article de monographie

Source :
Physical geography, issn : 0272-3646, 2013, vol. 34, n°. 4-5, p. 273-292, nombre de pages : 20, Références bibliographiques : 33 ref.

Date :
2013

Editeur :
Pays édition : Royaume-Uni, Abingdon, Taylor and Francis