Collaborative Research: A theoretical framework for the evolution of distributary networks on wave-influenced deltas

合作研究：波浪影响三角洲分流网络演化的理论框架

• 批准号: 0746138
• 负责人: Douglas Jerolmack
• 金额: $ 21.33万
• 依托单位: University of Pennsylvania
• 依托单位国家: 美国
• 项目类别: Continuing Grant
• 财政年份: 2008
• 资助国家: 美国
• 起止时间: 2008-06-15 至 2013-05-31
• 项目状态: 已结题
• 来源: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=0746138&HistoricalAwards=false
• 关键词: Collaborative; Research; theoretical; framework; evolution

Our ability to predict and mitigate the response of deltas to natural and human disturbances is limited by a lack of understanding of the evolution of delta channel (distributary) networks. This project will fundamentally advance the ability to predict and mitigate the response of deltas to natural and human disturbances through a combined theoretical, experimental, and field-based approach. Satellite imagery and field data will be used to derive the statistics of channel networks for a wide variety of deltas, forming a target for modeling efforts. Mapping of subsurface deposits on the Mississippi Delta will examine environmental controls on distributary formation and evolution through time. Laboratory experiments will reproduce distributary networks at a much-reduced scale, and explore the fundamental control parameters (e.g., sediment and water supply, wave energy, sea level rise). Experimental results will guide the development of a theoretical model, which will mathematically describe the processes that create channel networks. The model will be used to help predict the growth of new river deltas in restoration schemes for the lower Mississippi Delta.Broader Impacts.River deltas are home to a significant fraction of the human population, and are ecologic hotspots that support diverse species. The network of channels on a delta forms its skeleton: channel locations determine patterns of deposition and dictate how sediment, nutrients and freshwater are delivered to the shoreline. The modeling framework will provide valuable predictive capabilities for individuals and agencies tasked with delta management. In particular, this research will help to guide the design of artificial diversions for land building on the Mississippi Delta, through collaboration with colleagues at the National Center for Earth-surface Dynamics, an NSF Science and Technology Center. This award will also support graduate students and the early career of a junior faculty member at the home institution.The award is supported by the Division of Earth Sciences's program in Geomorphology and Land-Use Dynamics.

我们缺乏对三角洲通道（分布）网络的演变的了解和减轻三角洲对自然和人类干扰的反应的能力。该项目将通过基于理论，实验和基于现场的方法从根本上提高预测和减轻三角洲对自然和人类干扰的反应的能力。卫星图像和现场数据将用于得出各种三角洲的通道网络的统计数据，从而构成了建模工作的目标。在密西西比三角洲的地下沉积物的映射将检查有关分布形成和随时间演化的环境控制。实验室实验将以大量降低的规模再现分布网络，并探索基本控制参数（例如，沉积物和供水，波浪能，海平面上升）。实验结果将指导一个理论模型的开发，该模型将数学上描述创建渠道网络的过程。该模型将用于帮助预测新河三角洲在恢复计划中的新河三角洲。三角洲的通道网络形成其骨骼：通道位置确定沉积模式，并决定如何将沉积物，养分和淡水传递到海岸线。该建模框架将为负责达美管理的个人和机构提供宝贵的预测能力。特别是，这项研究将有助于指导密西西比三角洲土地建设的人工改道设计，并通过与国家NSF科学与技术中心国家地球表面动力学中心的同事合作。该奖项还将支持研究生和家庭机构的初级教师的早期职业。