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WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH, VOL. 39, NO. 6, 1141, doi:10.1029/2002WR001383, 2003

Three-dimensional model of modern channel bend deposits

M. Bayani Cardenas

Department of Geosciences, University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA


Vitaly A. Zlotnik

Department of Geosciences, University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA


Abstract

We present a three-dimensional model of heterogeneous modern channel bend deposits developed through purely structure-imitating interpolation (kriging) of hydraulic properties. This model, augmented with ground-penetrating radar data and directional variograms, agrees with detailed observations in similar modern environments and leads to a process-based interpretation of the presented hydraulic conductivity structure. Integration of all available information permitted delineation and characterization of the modern streambed as a distinct hydrostratigraphic unit without coring or outcrop studies. Our results imply that the modern streambed is commonly oversimplified in available analytical and numerical models of groundwater-surface water interactions where it is assumed to be homogeneous and isotropic and characterized by a constant width and thickness. This three-dimensional approach that integrates concepts and principles developed in sedimentology, hydrogeology, geophysics, and geostatistics has potential implications on model development of stream-aquifer systems.

Received 15 April 2002; accepted 13 March 2003; published 4 June 2003.

Index Terms: 1829 Hydrology: Groundwater hydrology; 1824 Hydrology: Geomorphology (1625); 1815 Hydrology: Erosion and sedimentation; 5114 Physical Properties of Rocks: Permeability and porosity; 1894 Hydrology: Instruments and techniques.

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Citation: Cardenas, M. B., and V. A. Zlotnik (2003), Three-dimensional model of modern channel bend deposits, Water Resour. Res., 39(6), 1141, doi:10.1029/2002WR001383.