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.

由于缺乏对三角洲河道（分流）网络演变的理解，我们预测和减轻三角洲对自然和人为干扰的反应的能力受到限制。该项目将通过理论、实验和实地研究相结合的方法，从根本上提高三角洲对自然和人为干扰的预测和缓解能力。卫星图像和现场数据将用于推导各种三角洲的渠道网络统计数据，形成建模工作的目标。对密西西比河三角洲地下沉积物的测绘将考察对分流形成和演化的环境控制。实验室实验将以大大缩小的规模再现分水网络，并探索基本的控制参数（例如，沉积物和供水、波浪能、海平面上升）。实验结果将指导理论模型的发展，该模型将以数学方式描述创建通道网络的过程。该模型将用于帮助预测密西西比河下游三角洲恢复计划中新的河流三角洲的增长。更广泛的影响。河流三角洲是很大一部分人口的家园，是支持多种物种的生态热点。三角洲上的河道网络形成了它的骨架：河道的位置决定了沉积的模式，并决定了沉积物、营养物质和淡水如何被输送到海岸线。建模框架将为负责delta管理的个人和机构提供有价值的预测能力。特别是，通过与美国国家科学基金会下属的国家地表动力学中心的同事合作，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。该奖项还将支持研究生和国内机构初级教员的早期职业生涯。该奖项由地球科学部地貌学和土地利用动力学项目提供支持。