Modelling topographic potential for erosion and deposition using GIS

TLDR

Modelling erosion and deposition in complex terrain within a GIS requires high‑resolution DEMs, reliable estimation of topographic parameters, and erosion models suitable for spatial representation. The authors integrated a regularized spline with tension to generate DEMs and topographic parameters, developed a vector‑grid algorithm for flow lines and upslope contributing areas, and modeled erosion/deposition potential using unit stream power and surface directional derivatives to represent sediment transport capacity. The methods were illustrated on study areas in central Illinois and the Yakima Ridge, Washington.

Abstract

Abstract Modelling of erosion and deposition in complex terrain within a geographical information system (GIS) requires a high resolution digital elevation model (DEM), reliable estimation of topographic parameters, and formulation of erosion models adequate for digital representation of spatially distributed parameters. Regularized spline with tension was integrated within a GIS for computation of DEMs and topographic parameters from digitized contours or other point elevation data. For construction of flow lines and computation of upslope contributing areas an algorithm based on vector-grid approach was developed. The spatial distribution of areas with topographic potential for erosion or deposition was then modelled using the approach based on the unit stream power and directional derivatives of surface representing the sediment transport capacity. The methods presented are illustrated on study areas in central Illinois and the Yakima Ridge, Washington.