Full title: SC26RM03. Field-Based Geologic and Geomorphic Information for Long-Term Flood Frequency Analyses
Instructor(s): Keith Kelson, Amy LeFebvre, Bryan Freymuth
Endorser(s): GSA Quaternary Geology and Geomorphology Division, GSA Environmental and Engineering Geology Division, GSA Soils and Soil Processes Division, GSA Geoarchaeology Division
CEUs: 2.0
Dates: Wed–Fri., 20-22 May
Locations:
Day 1: On-Site Wednesday at Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Day 2: Field Instruction
Day 3: Abiquiu Ghost Ranch Classroom
Times: 1:30-5:30 p.m.(first day), 8 a.m.-5 p.m.(second day), 8 a.m.-12 p.m (third day)
Description: The course goal is to reenforce concepts that assist interpretation of extreme pre-historic floods in assessments of infrastructure risk. Development of robust flood chronologies requires collaboration among the inter-related technical disciplines of fluvial geomorphology, Holocene geochronology, archaeology, hydraulic modeling, and statistical hydrology, and this course will show that multi-disciplinary teams are needed to develop defensible extreme-flood chronologies.
The course will include justification and common applications of extreme-flood analyses, which will be followed by geomorphologic, geochronologic, and hydraulic concepts needed for documenting extreme-flood chronologies. Field-based exercises will demonstrate how to identify and interpret typical extreme-flood geomorphic features and develop defensible interpretations about the occurrence (or non-occurrence), magnitude, and timing of extreme floods. Coursework will include collaborative problem-solving exercises and examples from recent dam-safety risk assessments. Last, the course will include discussions about using long-term flood chronologies and associated uncertainties in risk assessments dams, levees, and other floodplain infrastructure.
Considerations: The second day will take participants into the field in enchanting northern New Mexico, at three locations along the Rio Chama between Abiquiu and Chamita. The stops will strive to explain primary concepts of high-stage extreme flood geomorphology, which will require moderate walking over steep and uneven terrain. Coffee, snacks, water, and lunch will be provided during this field day in the gorgeous New Mexico spring weather. In the evening, participants will discuss field results perhaps around a campfire, with appropriate snacks and libations, as true field geomorphologists do. The final morning, to be spent in a classroom setting at Abiquiu Ghost Ranch, will allow participants to compile active geologic, geomorphic, geochronologic, and hydrologic data, and develop relevant conclusions. As guided by course leaders, this final session will help participants better understand the implications of prehistoric and historic extreme flood records to flow-frequency analyses of critical infrastructure, to long-term meteorologic events (big storms), and to baseline information available for interpretations of changing climate patterns.
Please note: Transportation and lodging are not included in the course fee, to allow flexibility and keep costs to a minimum. As needed, carpooling opportunities can be coordinated prior to the meeting. Lodging arrangements should be made on your own at the Abiquiu Inn, Abiquiu Ghost Ranch, or elsewhere; these venues have a full range of geologist-appropriate lodging, from true "ghost camping" to luxurious hotel suites. There will be a few rooms available in blocks at the Abiquiu Inn and at Ghost Ranch.
By purchasing this item, you are buying a seat for an in-person short course.
Short Courses offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs). One CEU equals 10 hours of participation in an organized continuing education experience under responsible sponsorship, capable direction, and qualified instruction.
Learn more about this and other Rocky Mountain Section Meeting Activities.
For additional information, please contact shortcourse@geosociety.
Product Code: SC26RM03
Product Category: SHORTC