Field Exercise: Stream Flow Dynamics and Sedimentation

In this activity, students will measure the profile of a stream, determine its current velocity at various locations, and examine the sediment on the stream bottom. They will examine the relationships between stream profile and flow velocity and between sediment grain-size and flow velocity. They will also produce a vertical profile of a stream and be able to map as well as define thalweg, point bar, and cut bank; measure flow velocity differences across a stream transect and equate the flow velocity with size of substrate sediment collected; and quantify discharge values for a stream. Educational levels: High school