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Information - GM5.2 River meander dynamics (co-listed in HS)
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Event Information |
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River meanders are often highly dynamic landforms that involve complex processes of change. Understanding of the mechanisms and timescales of meander development and evolution has important implications for fluvial landscape change, for associated habitats and ecosystems, and for practical management of rivers and floodplains. Various aspects of river meanders are currently being researched, by diverse groups from differing disciplinary backgrounds including geomorphology, ecology, mathematics, engineering, hydraulics and sedimentology.
Development of simulation models and ability to predict meander migration and change has long been a goal and models at differing temporal and spatial scales are being proposed. Likewise, much numerical and hardware (flume) modelling and empirical work is taking place on hydraulics, flow patterns and processes in bends. Work continues on longer-term evolution of morphology, formation of cut-offs and development of floodplains. The conditions for meandering and for stability and instability remain central questions and include the role of different sedimentological settings and the interaction with vegetation. The role of flood events and the response of meandering systems to changing hydrological questions are important academic and practical issues, particularly in relation to climate and land-use change.
Debate is also taking place on fundamental questions of underlying causes of meandering and the extent to which meander behaviour is autogenic or is a response to external changes. This is an opportune time to reflect on progress and to debate these questions in an interdisciplinary context. Papers on any aspect of river meander dynamics are welcome.
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