Visualizing Stream Bank Erosion with 3D Models and Sediment Analysis

This lesson provides an opportunity for students to directly observe river processes and geomorphic change along a river channel. The students will visit a river or stream where bank materials were eroded and exposed. In the field, students will collect size, sorting, and shape data on soil, sediment, or rock materials. measure bank heights and areas of exposed and cover materials and vegetation. evaluate the bank materials and slope features in the field to interpret why and how erosion is occurring. reflect on the impacts of factors including the slope or shape of the bank, the material properties, and root density. After analysis and interpretation of observations and data, students will reflect on their interpretations and consider future applications and importance characterizing channel features. If the activity is repeated at the same location in subsequent semesters, students may also describe and quantify change over time in class or lab sessions after the field visit.