Applied Stream Channel Morphology RENR 8108

This course provides an introduction to river and stream morphology in the fluvial landscape, including the physical processes that control form and function of stream channels and the means of observing them. This is an applied stream channel morphology course, based on the first principals of geomorphology. The emphasis is on identifying the important river measurements, how they are obtained in the field, and how data are analyzed (including advantages and limitations). Objectives of this course are: to introduce the general topic of river and stream morphology in the fluvial landscape; to introduce the main processes that occur in rivers/streams, and the means for observing them; to develop a balanced, comprehensive appreciation of the commonly used techniques for analysis of river morphology and processes, as they are applied to restoration activities, and; to introduce students to the advantages and limitations of commonly applied geomorphological techniques applied to restoration. This is a strongly field-based course, so attendance and active participation is required. Some labs will be conducted outside of regularly-scheduled class time.