HWM-33306 Hydrology and Geology of Deltas

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

BIP-10306 Introductory Physics, SGL-22306 Geology, Soils and Landscapes of the Rhine-Meuse Delta

Continuation courses:

HWM-30306 River Flow and Morphology, SGL-33806 The 4th Dimension in Earth Sciences

Contents:

Deltas are among the highest populated parts of the world and host many of world's largest cities. Yet, many of these deltas and their inhabitants are under threat as a consequence of combined impacts of sea-level rise and human pressure. This course provides students with insight in hydrological and geological processes governing delta evolution, in relation to contemporary threats. The course commences with an overview of hydrological and geological processes leading to delta development. The role of downstream (sea-level fluctuations) and upstream (freshwater and sediment delivery) controls are discussed. The focus then shifts to processes in present-day deltas, including sediment dynamics, and hydrological topics such as tides and storm surges, waves, estuarine circulation, river plumes, and the hydraulic geometry of delta channels. Geological and hydrological aspects are combined in delta-evolution models, soils and land use are related to delta evolution, and human impacts on short- and long-term delta development are discussed. The course ends with an assessment of the vulnerability of various types of deltas to the combined effects of sea level rise and anthropogenic influences, discussing how the understanding obtained during the course can be used for sustainable delta management.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of the course students are expected to be able to:
- understand the large-scale responses of delta build up and decay in response to upstream and downstream forcing;
- infer how the morphology of deltas is affected by dominant processes;
- analyse a time-series of water levels or flow velocity adopting a harmonic analysis approach;
- examine processes of estuarine circulation in delta channels;
- investigate salt intrusion and river plume spreading;
- evaluate the consequences of human activity to delta evolution, and reflect on potential routes for sustainable delta management.

Activities:

- lectures where course material is being discussed interactively;
- computer practical work focused on tidal analysis and delta modelling;
- two one-day excursions where human pressures and novel management strategies for the Dutch delta are discussed;
- group assignments designed to apply the theory.

Examination:

The mark for the course will be based on a written exam at the end of the course (5/6) and performance during paper presentations (1/6).

Literature:

- reader;
- computer practical guide;
- worked examples for the seminars;
- selected scientific papersv - excursion guide.