A Review of Sediment Science for Texas Rivers

Upper Brazos River downstream of Seymour, TX, demonstrating instream sediment storage and suspended sediment transport - Dr. Kimberly Meitzen (photo 2024)

Project Summary

Sediment supply and transport are essential processes that impact riparian and aquatic habitats in river basins throughout Texas. These environments are crucial for the health of rivers and estuaries along the coast, which support a diverse range of flora and fauna, including at-risk species.

Texans rely on clean, safe water resources that could be compromised by dysfunctional sediment regimes. Currently, there is no central database of information regarding fluvial processes related to sediment sources, transport, and deposition within watersheds. This limits the state's ability to identify beneficial sediment load regimes that support healthy ecological environments and minimize impacts on water resources and reservoir management.

This project examines existing literature, geomorphic and sediment datasets, models, and methods. The research process will expose gaps in the available resources. Our team will identify and organize this information to help water managers make decisions with the best available science and prioritize future efforts to fill these gaps. This project is a collaboration between Dr. Kimberly Meitzen (Dept. of Geography and Environmental Studies) and the Ecological Research Group and will produce a thoroughly researched library of available resources and priority needs for implementing holistic methodologies that integrate sediment science into surface water management. 

This effort aims to enhance our understanding of how sedimentary and fluvial processes interact to sustain vital aquatic habitats in diverse riverscapes and influence riverine management for both environmental and societal benefits.