On debris flows, river networks, and the spatial structure of channel morphology.

P.E. Bigelow; L.E. Benda; D.J. Miller; K.M. Burnett

Treesearch

On debris flows, river networks, and the spatial structure of channel morphology.

Informally Refereed

Authors:

P.E. Bigelow, L.E. Benda, D.J. Miller, K.M. Burnett

Year:

2007

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Pacific Northwest Research Station

Source:

Forest Science. 53(2): 220–238

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Abstract

In this paper, we examine the influence of debris-flow deposits and fans on channels and habitat characteristics in small to intermediate-size watersheds in the Oregon Coast Range. We evaluate: (1) the proportion of stream length bordered by debris fans and the spacing between fans, (2) the recurrence interval of debris flows in unmanaged watersheds, (3) the proportion of wood recruited to streams by debris flows, and (4) how various habitat parameters (boulder deposits, large wood, sediment, and pools) vary by distance from debris-flow fans. Based on our analysis and related papers, we propose several attributes of erosion relevant to aquatic habitats for consideration in natural resource management, using debris flows and timber harvest as an example.

Keywords

debris flow, large wood, fish habitat, erosion, Oregon Coast Range

Citation

Bigelow, P.E.; Benda, L.E.; Miller, D.J.; Burnett, K.M. 2007. On debris flows, river networks, and the spatial structure of channel morphology. Forest Science. 53(2): 220–238