Topographic Analysis of Watershed Data

Science Center, Bent Corridor

This research is focused on tracking erosion rates by the use of fallout radionuclides and topographic analysis. Fallout Radionuclides are man made isotopes that are products of nuclear weapons. These radionuclides were distributed into soil and are used as trackers to measure erosion rates. Through the use of a topographic analysis tool called LSDTopoTools we were able to analyze watershed data from an area in China and create topographic maps. Furthermore, the maps represent a detailed model of channel networks, hill shades, etc. and that reveal how the area is eroding. With the use of this data and analyzing it with LSD TopoTools we are able to obtain valuable information that helps us further understand erosion.