River morphology information system: A web cyberinfrastructure for advancing river morphology research

Abstract

The study of river systems is challenged by the complexity and volume of data required to understand and predict river morphology changes. The River Morphology Information System (RIMORPHIS) addresses these challenges with an open-access web-based cyberinfrastructure for advanced river morphology research. Built on the National Hydrography Dataset Plus High Resolution, RIMORPHIS integrates publicly available bathymetry data and third-party resources into a cohesive database architecture for real-time use and analysis. The platform, structured around a PostgreSQL database with PostGIS extension, offers tools for geospatial visualization using Deck.GL, data analytics with Python-based geospatial processing, and eHydro Cross Section Surveys integration via API. By providing on-demand access to relevant datasets and tools for data analytics and geospatial visualization, RIMORPHIS enhances data accessibility and interoperability, supporting informed decision-making in river basin management. This paper presents the development and functionalities of RIMORPHIS and its contributions to hydrological information systems as a self-sustained community platform.