Geomorphic Assessments

Geomorphology is the study of landforms and how they change over time. Landform adjustments are governed by the climate and underlying geology, as well as the effects of vegetation and human-induced disturbances on the land surface.

Fluvial geomorphology is the sub-discipline of geomorphology that focuses on the formation and adjustment of stream and river channels. Understanding the physical processes that affect the appearance and stability of streams and rivers is important to the state's efforts to manage and restore them.

The way we use the land areas in the state has direct implications on the stability and ecological health of stream and river corridors. Understanding these implications involves the measurement of the land surface, sediment flux, and water flow through the landscape. Collectively, this information is used by DNR and other agencies to describe and quantify the processes that affect the capacity of streams and rivers to serve as healthy habitats for fish and other aquatic species.

• Roles of geomorphic assessments in natural resource management
• Resources available to help perform geomorphic assessments

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This page was updated on 4/5/2006