Assessing sediment dynamics from geomorphological maps: Bruchi torrential system, Swiss alps

Abstract

In alpine environments, debris flows are a dangerous geomorphic process and the main sediment transport agent in mountainous watersheds. In these areas, topographic conditions and land cover often reduce accessibility to conduct field surveys, such as geomorphological mapping. Remotely sensed data, including digital elevation models, can be used to highlight and map the main geomorphologic features, to analyse characteristics of the hydrographical network and, hence, to evidence the location and the potential volumes of sediment supply zones.