Tahoe Research, Scholarship & Outreach at the University of Nevada, Reno

Dissertations and Theses about the Tahoe Basin
by Students at the University of Nevada, Reno

Earth Sciences


Author:
Butt, Anya Zarina
Year: (1999)
Title: Stream channel morphology in the Lake Tahoe Basin within a hierarchical framework: A geomorphic perspective.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 355
Thesis Type: PhD
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: HYDROLOGY (0388); PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY (0368); GEOLOGY (0372)
Abstract: Streams and their associated environments represent a unique focus of many research interests due to the fluvial processes that shape and influence their morphology as well as the ecological interactions of the riparian environment. The need to understand stream environments has generated numerous classification systems at various scales. In an attempt to examine stream morphology in a hierarchical context, I linked three scales of geomorphological information and examined their interaction. With assistance from the USFS, I classified 33 streams in the Lake Tahoe Basin according to the Rosgen (1994) classification and categorized these reaches according to the Montgomery/Buffington (1993) system. There is general agreement between the two systems, but categories in the Montgomery/Buffington system are often unclear, while the quantitative description in the Rosgen system provides a clear mental image and tool for classification. I propose the channel incisement depth ratio, defined as the ratio of the height of the first terrace above the channel bed to the maximum bankful depth, and the channel incisement width ratio as the ratio of the width of the floodplain contained between the terrace banks to the bankful channel width, as alternative and additional channel morphological parameters to more fully describe the channel environment. I found significant differences in bankful channel width/depth and entrenchment ratios between reaches in terrain with differing geomorphic heritage (fluvial versus glacial fill). The influence of geology on stream morphology is muted due to the formation of alluvial valleys by the stream. In steeper reaches, an interaction between geology and geomorphic heritage exists, reflecting the increased weathering susceptibility of volcanic rocks and the greater sorting imparted by fluvial processes. In-stream habitat units also had significant differences in their occurrence and physical structure in the varying geologic and geomorphic terrains. The influence of geology and geomorphology at the stream-reach level and the habitat-unit level indicates that a hierarchical structure is inherent in the fluvial system. Understanding these interactions allows us to more effectively manage stream ecosystems by addressing restoration concerns by encompassing the entire watershed. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Swansen, Sherman
Reference: 0-599-64976-3; DAI-B 61/02, p. 749, Aug 2000
 

Author:
Cave, Deborah Leigh
Year: (1987)
Title: Geochemical Reactions between Primary-Treated Sewage and Volcanic Phase Assemblages near Tahoe City, California.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 171
Thesis Type: MS
Link: UNR DeLaMare Library and DRI Library Call Number: Thesis 2235 
Keywords: HYDROLOGY (0388); GEOCHEMISTRY (0996)
Abstract: Volcanic terrain near Tahoe City, California, was utilized from 1970 to 1978 as a land disposal medium for primary-treated sewage. Prior to effluent application, the primary geochemical process occurring in the latite flow system was weathering of aluminosilicates; feldspars were the dominant reactants, contributing 82 percent of total ions (Ca, Na, K) to solution. During effluent application, dissolution of plagioclase feldspars increased 260 percent; Ca concentrations in solution increased proportionately, but Na and K levels decreased. Cation exchange and adsorption were not viable mechanisms for continual removal of high sodic concentrations from solution; therefore, formation of disordered clays appears to have been the principal sink for Na, K and silica in the flow system. Cation concentrations in solution and resultant clay precipitation were controlled by: (1) aluminosilicate dissolution and resultant cation ratios in solution; (2) anion concentrations; and (3) aluminum concentrations in solution. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor:
Reference: MAI 26/02, p. 228, Summer 1988
 

Author:
Connell, Richard L.
Year: (1994)
Title: Improving Assessment of Old Growth Forests in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Using Geographic Information Systems.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 74
Thesis Type: MS
Link:
Keywords:
Abstract: In this thesis I present the results of an analysis utilizing Geographic Information Systems technology in conjunction with existing information to predict old growth locations along the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range. This analysis relied upon existing timber inventory for the vegetation layer where other similar studies utilize satellite imagery for this layer and these studies try to determine a spectral signature associated with old growth. The layers used in this analysis were known old growth, a timber inventory, slope, aspect, elevation, roads, and soils. The known old growth layer resulted from three field seasons of work by Toiyabe National Forest Wildlife Biologists. This inventory was incomplete as local knowledge indicated other stands that might meet old growth criteria exited. This analysis resulted in a prediction of 54 stands or clumps of stands that were verified via 1:12,000 aerial photography. The analysis also predicted many existing stands (31 of 54 or 57%) and one newly inventoried stand. The location of predicted stands will be turned over to Toiyabe Wildlife Biologists for further investigation and field verification.
Advisor:
Reference: 1358124
 

Author:
Flatland, Robert Michael
Year: (1993)
Title: Application of the Rockfall Hazard Rating System to the rock slopes adjacent to US 50 and State Route 28 on the east side of Lake Tahoe, Nevada.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 344
Thesis Type: MS
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: ENGINEERING, CIVIL (0543); GEOLOGY (0372)
Abstract: Techniques have been developed to both model rockfall behavior and to select which sites require rockfall mitigation. The Rockfall Hazard Rating System developed by the Oregon Department of Transportation is one such system used to establish a ranking of the hazardous slopes in a given region. The rockfall hazards of the Lake Tahoe study area range from small debris which may distract a driver, to boulders as large as 3 ft. in diameter, which have resulted in motorist injury and even death. The Rockfall Hazard Rating System was used to evaluate the slopes adjacent to US 50 and State Route 28 on the east side of Lake Tahoe, Nevada. The system was effective in establishing a data base of the most hazardous slopes in terms of rockfall, but clearly some modifications to the system seem appropriate. Geotechnical evaluations were performed on some of the more hazardous slopes and mitigation/remediation measures were proposed for all hazardous slopes. Scaling of loose slope debris, ditch deepening and reshaping, jersey barrier installation or improvement, wire meshing, and selective rock bolting were most commonly recommended. (Abstract shortened by UMI.) Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Watters, Robert J.
Reference: MAI 32/05, p. 1431, Oct 1994
 

Author:
Franklin, Abraham J.
Year: (1996)
Title: Riparian Vegetation Mapping in the Sierra Nevada Using Airborne Digital Multispectral Videography and Image Processing.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 164
Thesis Type: MS
Link:
Keywords:
Abstract: A multispectral videography system was used to acquire high-resolution digital imagery in four spectral bands covering 2165 ha in parts of four watersheds in Washoe County, Nevada. The imagery was georeferenced, resampled, and mosaicked, and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was used to identify riparian vegetation with an estimated accuracy of 97%. Several supervised and unsupervised algorithms were used to classify the riparian portion of one scene into six vegetation classes. The highest overall accuracy of 60% was provided by linear discriminant classification of a mean-filtered United States Geological Survey digital orthophotoquad (DOQ), a standard deviation raster derived from the DOQ, and the NDVI derived from the videography. These rasters and classification algorithm were then used to classify the riparian portion of the entire mosaic. Accuracy of the resulting map was 42% for six vegetation classes and 60% when moist and wet meadow classes were merged.
Advisor:
Reference: 1379663
 

Author:
Fritchel, Patrick Earl
Year: (2003)
Title: Evaluation of erosion control strategies used for channel protection in the Clear Creek watershed, eastern Sierra Nevada.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 140
Thesis Type: MS
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: ENGINEERING, CIVIL (0543); ENGINEERING, ENVIRONMENTAL (0775)
Abstract: Severe erosion is occurring at several locations in the Clear Creek watershed along U.S. Highway 50 between Carson City and Lake Tahoe. Erosion has caused problems related to slope stability along roadways and increased maintenance requirements, especially those associated with drainage structures. The physical characteristics of the upper Clear Creek watershed include steep slopes, thin soil sections, and highly weathered bedrock, which allow erosion to proceed almost unchecked. In numerous cases, the erosion has manifested itself in the form of deep gullies and rilled slopes. A combination of laboratory tests and field studies were conducted to assess the performance of several rolled erosion control products (RECPs). These RECPs were found to be effective in reducing erosion over granular bare soil by a magnitude of three. In general, RECPs constructed with components containing a rigid netting appeared to perform slightly better than other more flexible linings. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Dennett, Keith E.
Reference: MAI 42/02, p. 637, Apr 2004
 

Author:
Gates, William Chester Bruce
Year: (1994)
Title: Regional slope stability of the Truckee River Canyon (drainage basin) from Tahoe City, California to Reno, Nevada.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 462
Thesis Type: PhD
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: GEOLOGY (0372); GEOTECHNOLOGY (0428); PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY (0368)
Abstract: The Truckee River drainage system from Tahoe City, California to Reno, Nevada presents unique examples of complex slope instability because of the varied and complicated geologic terrane through which river flows. The objectives of this investigation were four fold: (1) Identify the major categories of mass wasting. (2) Evaluate specific examples of mass wasting. (3) Define the environmental factors which control the regional and local slope stability. (4) Apply a set of multiparameter relative age dating (RAD) techniques to evaluate the general chronologic geomorphic events which formed the Truckee River canyon. Five major categories of mass wasting were classified: rockfalls, rotational slides, translational slides, debris flows and complex failures. Five of the largest examples investigated were complex slope failures. Midway Bridge and Mogul Landslides are rotational slides. Boca Ridge Landslide represents planar-translation and multiple shallow rotational failures. Bronco Creek and Mystic Canyon rock avalanches initially failed by translation (planar and wedge) and possibly toppling action. All failures occurred in weak rock exacerbated by favorable rock structure. At least seven environmental factors singularly or together proved to be the significant causes for slope instability. These factors are in descending order: (1) weak rock (Truckee and Kate Peak Formations); (2) favorable rock structure (extension joint sets flanking the Truckee River); (3) oversteeping by repeated flooding and disgorging of Pleistocene glacial Lake Tahoe; (4) historic earthquake activity; (5) varied climate; (6) ground and surface water conditions; and (7) human agencies. Seven RAD techniques were employed to estimate the relative ages of the geomorphic events. The most useful method was a combination of weathering rind measurements of rock clasts accompanied with stratigraphic and geomorphic relationships, vegetation and soil development. Lichenometric methods were unsatisfactory because the deposits were older than the effective range of lichenometry. Carbon 14 dating was not applicable because there was little dateable organic material within the deposits. Denudation rates were least reliable because of the limited sedimentation and erosion data. Mass wasting during the Tahoe Period (60 to 15 Ka BP) was very active forming present landforms along the Truckee River. Presently, the canyon is relatively stable. However, rockfall and cutbank rotational failures along the river continue. The Mogul Landslide is currently active. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Watters, Robert J.
Reference: DAI-B 55/07, p. 2605, Jan 1995
 

Author:
Giglini, Tony D.
Year: (2003)
Title: Reactive gaseous mercury concentrations and mercury flux from natural, anthropogenic, and background settings in northwestern Nevada.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 100
Thesis Type: MS
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES (0768); ENGINEERING, ENVIRONMENTAL (0775); GEOCHEMISTRY (0996)
Abstract: Little work has been done to quantify reactive gaseous mercury (RGM) associated with mercury-enriched sites. This project evaluated both soil mercury flux and RGM in natural, anthropogenic, and background settings to determine areas of possible enrichment. Both elevated soil mercury flux and RGM were measured at the naturally enriched Steamboat Springs Area, and in the anthropogenically enriched Carson River Superfund Area. Our data corresponds well with previous soil mercury flux measurements collected in these two areas. A preliminary Hg mass balance was created for both the Incline Creek Experimental Watershed (ICEW) and the Lake Tahoe Basin. Mercury concentrations in environmental media of the ICEW indicate that the watershed is a pristine, non mercury- enriched setting. Preliminary extrapolation of data collected from the ICEW indicates a net output of mercury from the Tahoe basin. This contradicts core sediment data that suggests mercury accumulation over the past century. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Gustin, Mae
Reference: MAI 42/05, p. 1665, Oct 2004
 

Author:
Maholland, Becky Lynn
Year: (2002)
Title: Geomorphic assessment of natural and anthropogenic sediment sources in an eastern Sierra Nevada watershed (California).
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 178
Thesis Type: MS
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: HYDROLOGY (0388); GEOLOGY (0372)
Abstract: Squaw Creek, a small (21.1 km2), subalpine watershed located approximately 9.6 kilometers northwest of Lake Tahoe, California between the towns of Tahoe City and Truckee, is listed as an impaired waterway for excessive non-point source sedimentation under section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. The watershed was evaluated from a geomorphic perspective to identify and characterize sources of sediment and sediment transport processes, quantify rates of hillslope and in-stream erosion, and assess the relative degree of impact of both natural and anthropogenic sediment sources on sediment delivery to the stream network. Calculated hillslope erosion rates show that the principal sources of sediment are related to land use impacts. Roads in the watershed contribute to sediment production by concentrating runoff which increases sediment load to the stream network. Most unimproved (dirt) roads connect either directly or indirectly with streams and therefore act as extensions of stream networks by effectively increasing watershed drainage density and subsequently sediment loads to streams. Geographic Information System modeling indicates that hillslope erosion susceptibility has increased in the watershed since 1939 as a result of land use impacts. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Bullard, Thomas F.
Reference: MAI 42/01, p. 187, Feb 2004
 

Author:
Martinelli, Diane Marie
Year: (1989)
Title: Geophysical investigations of the northern Sierra Nevada- Basin and Range boundary, west-central Nevada and east- central California.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 181
Thesis Type: MS
Link:
Keywords: GEOTECHNOLOGY (0428)
Abstract: The seismicity, heat flow, and crustal thickness of the Sierra Nevada-Basin and Range transition were examined in the Reno-Carson City-Lake Tahoe region. From seismic reflection and refraction data the crustal structure exhibits crustal thinning from the Sierra Nevada (40 km) to the Basin and Range (29 to 33 km). Heat flow values in the Tahoe Basin are transitional between the high values of the Basin and Range province and the low values of the Sierra Nevada. The seismicity of the area for the years 1980-1987 was examined. The main result from the seismicity study is that the hypocentral depths shallow from the Sierra Nevada into the Basin and Range which is consistent with the changes in heat flow and crustal thickness. A significant transitional zone, 20 to 30 km wide exists in the crustal properties between these two provinces. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Priestley, Keith
Reference: MAI 28/02, p. 311, Summer 1990
 

Author:
McCaughey, James W.
Year: (2003)
Title: Pleistocene glaciation of the southwest Tahoe basin: Sierra Nevada, California.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 179
Thesis Type: MS
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: GEOLOGY (0372); PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY (0368)
Abstract: This relative-dating study of the Pleistocene moraines in the southwest Tahoe basin distinguishes two ages of moraines and provides detailed description and mapping of the Tahoe moraines of Blackwelder (1931). Tioga moraines have relatively narrow crests (3–8 m, avg. 5 m), steep flanks (21–31°, avg. 27°), high boulder frequency (90–166, avg. 121), shallow weathering pans (11–163 mm, avg. 34 mm), and low relief of mafic inclusions (5–55 mm, avg. 26 mm). Tahoe moraines have relatively wide crests (5–24 m, avg. 16 m), less steep flanks (15–32°, avg. 22°), low boulder frequency (8–98, avg. 34), deep weathering pans (0–700 mm, avg. 118 mm), and high relief of mafic inclusions (15–150 mm, avg. 53 mm). ELAs estimated by THAR for small cirque glaciers at Granite and Angora Lakes are ∼2410 m for Tioga glaciers and ∼2400 m for Tahoe glaciers. Distinct fault scarps offset Tioga moraines at Cascade Lake and Osgood Swamp. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Schweickert, Richard A.
Reference: MAI 42/02, p. 549, Apr 2004
 

Author:
Rennie, Douglas Paul
Year: (1987)
Title: Late Pleistocene Alpine Glacial Deposits in the Pine Forest Range, Nevada.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 63
Thesis Type: MS
Link:
Keywords: GEOLOGY (0372)
Abstract: Descriptive geology, interpretation of aerial photographs, and relative dating (RD) parameters are all used to recognize glacial deposits from two glaciations in the Pine Forest Range, northwestern Nevada. Early deposits of Onion Valley age have a less distinct morphology than subsequent Blue Lake age deposits. RD parameters useful in distinguishing between the two deposits are surface boulder frequency, percent pitted, hammerblow weathering ratio, maximum dike height, and oxidation ratio. Cluster analysis greatly facilitates RD data interpretation. Soil B horizons are present only on deposits of Onion Valley age. RD data suggest a stage order difference for the two glaciations. The Onion Valley and Blue Lake deposits are correlated with the Sierra Nevada Tahoe and Tioga deposits and the Ruby-East Humboldt Range Lamoille and Angel Lake deposits. Based on these correlations along with data from Steens Mountain and Lake Lahontan deposits, the Blue Lake and Onion Valley glaciations are estimated to be oxygen isotope stage 2 and 6 respectively. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor:
Reference: MAI 26/01, p. 92, Spring 1988
 

Author:
Sabine, Charles
Year: (1992)
Title: Magmatic interaction in the Crystal Range suite, northern Sierra Nevada Batholith, California.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 258
Thesis Type:
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: GEOLOGY (0372); REMOTE SENSING (0799)
Abstract: The approximately 225-km$/sp2$ Desolation study area lies at the northern end of the Sierra Nevada batholith, southwest of Lake Tahoe. The area is underlain by early- to middle-Jurassic metasedimentary and metavolcanic rocks of the Mount Tallac pendant, a group of middle-Jurassic plutonic rocks, and several Cretaceous plutons. Extensive glaciated exposures and a diversity of igneous lithologies ranging from leucogranite to anorthosite ideally suit the area for geologic and remote sensing studies. Among Jurassic plutons is the Crystal Range suite, which includes the Pyramid Peak leucogranite and numerous consanguine dioritoid bodies, hybrid rocks, and microdiorite dikes. Dioritoid and leucogranite magmas interacted as demonstrated by field (lobate contacts, composite dikes, hybridization), petrographic (ocellar quartz, rapakivi texture, acicular apatite), and geochemical evidence (Harker diagrams, variation across contact zones). Low initial $/sp[87]$Sr/$/sp[86]$Sr ratios indicate a mantle origin for dioritoids; a range of higher ratios in leucogranite suggests melting of an isotopically diverse crust. Alignment of the Crystal Range suite, dioritoid bodies, and foliation patterns with regional structural trends in metamorphic rocks suggests emplacement was influenced by geologic structures. The Crystal Range suite was among the earliest plutonic units to invade metamorphic rocks. A U- Pb zircon age from Pyramid Peak leucogranite is 164 $/pm$ 7 Ma. A model is proposed in which crustal anatectic leucogranite magma is generated by underplating of mafic magma from the mantle. Faults and shear zones provide conduits for concomitant ascent and interaction of mafic and felsic magmas early in a plutonic cycle. As plutonism continues, melting and magmatic interaction in the lower crust generate large volumes of intermediate magma. Thermal softening produces a more ductile crust, allowing ascent of large diapiric plutons. Other mafic-felsic suits in the Sierra Nevada batholith intrude metamorphic rocks and are surrounded by younger plutons as predicted by the model. Thermal Infrared Multispectral Scanner imagery led to discoveries of a large mafic body, obscured by vegetation, and a silicic facies of a mafic granodiorite and allowed discrimination of plutons according to composition. Correlation of wavelengths of emittance minima with pluton compositions produced images that semiquantitatively depict variation in SiO$/sb2,$ SCFM, quartz, and hornblende content. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Taranik, James V.
Reference: DAI-B 53/06, p. 2747, Dec 1992
 

Author:
Sullivan, Adam G.
Year: (1999)
Title: Alluvial process and geomorphic effectiveness on two Tahoe streams (California).
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 100
Thesis Type: MS
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: HYDROLOGY (0388)
Abstract: Stream management and effective stream restoration require an understanding of the variables that directly influence processes that shape the channel. To understand current processes on two alluvial streams targeted for stream restoration, this study examined their geomorphic response to the January 1997 rain-on-snow flood and the 1997 and 1998 spring snowmelt runoff peaks. Sediment transport was compared among the three flow peaks in relation to patterns of exerted unit stream power. Changes in cross-sectional channel geometry were compared to patterns of stream power and channel geometry, vegetation community types, soil types, and available historical information. Stream power depends greatly on slope, and floodplain accessibility attenuates peak stream power. Neither peak nor cumulative unit stream power accurately gauged changes in channel geometry. Stream power estimated bedload transport differently than the Meyer-Peter Muller equation. Vegetation communities and soil types did not significantly correlate with changes in channel width. Spring runoff peaks dominate winter rain-on-snow peaks in cumulative sediment yield over time. The high magnitude of winter rain-on-snow runoff peaks accelerates the progression of natural recovery in incised but narrow alluvial channels. A multidisciplinary perspective on stream management and alluvial channel evolution puts channel changes into context and orients stream restoration efforts towards facilitating natural recovery. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Swanson, Sherman
Reference: 0-599-64872-4; MAI 38/04, p. 961, Aug 2000
 

Author:
Sullivan, Matthew David
Year: (2000)
Title: Hydrological studies conducted in the Upper Incline Creek watershed, Nevada.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 178
Thesis Type: MS
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: HYDROLOGY (0388)
Abstract: Several hydrological studies were conducted in the Upper Incline Creek watershed, Nevada, located in the Lake Tahoe basin. The first study examined a method for combining field data with an existing GIS database to define spatial variations in infiltration. The second study used the computer model HSPF to simulate discharge and compared two different scenarios: one that visualized the watershed as one pervious land segment (PLS); the other as multiple PLSs. Both scenarios were capable of duplicating observed discharges equally well, but the scenario using multiple PLS provided a better understanding of the physical characteristics of the watershed. The last study compared two methods of estimating sediment loads generated from rainfall: one used an empirically-based linear-regression method, and the other used a physically-based computer model (HSPF). Whereas sediment load from summer storms is small compared to the total annual load, occasional extreme events can generate a significant amount of sediment. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Warwick, John J.
Reference: 0-599-92300-8; MAI 39/02, p. 467, Apr 2001
 

Author:
Sutherland, James Colin
Year: (2001)
Title: Eighteenth century logging and the geomorphic response of a montane watershed in the Carson Range, western Nevada.
Institution: University of Nevada Reno
No. Pages: 115
Thesis Type: MS
Link: Download (UNR Only)
Keywords: HYDROLOGY (0388); AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND WILDLIFE (0478); ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES (0768)
Abstract: Vicee Canyon, a small (5.2 km2), steep watershed on the east slope of the Carson Range, contains important information on what effects large scale logging during the late 1800s had on the geomorphic stability of this drainage basin. Similarities of Vicee Canyon to drainages in the Lake Tahoe basin allow the knowledge gained through this study to be applied in watersheds that affect the fragile ecosystems of the lake. Vicee Canyon was selected both for its depositional record that spans the latest Holocene and for the wealth of historical records and human artifacts associated with this watershed. Stratigraphic analysis, radiocarbon dating, and dendrochronology were used in concert with historic records and artifacts to determine that the Comstock-era logging in fact caused an increase in the amount of sediment being delivered to the channel in Vicee Canyon. A large portion of this historic sediment has made its way out of the drainage to the alluvial fan, while a small amount remains in storage along the channel walls of the drainage basin. Note: dissertation citations and abstracts contained here are published with permission of ProQuest Information and Learning. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by addressing your request to UMI® Dissertation Services, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1346 USA. Telephone (734) 761-7400; Web-page: wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations.
Advisor: Wells, Stephen G.
Reference: 0-493-36599-0; MAI 40/02, p. 420, Apr 2002