Pattern and process of headward erosion in salt marsh tidal creeks / by Melynda K. May.
| Author/creator | May, Melynda K. author. |
| Other author | Brinson, Mark M., degree supervisor. |
| Other author | East Carolina University. Department of Biology. |
| Format | Theses and dissertations |
| Production | 2002. |
| Description | 133 leaves : illustrations, map ; 28 cm |
| Supplemental Content | Access via ScholarShip |
| Subjects |
| Summary | Under conditions of rising sea level and low sedimentation rates, tidal creeks erode headward. I described the physical, soil, and vegetation characteristics from tidal creek channels to the upland boundary of marshes. Based on the variability in this pattern, I identified three tidal creek classes that were statistically verified using discriminant function analysis. Creek class appears to be determined by the presence and thickness of an organic rich layer in the marsh. Creeks eroding into thick organic rich deposits were classified as strong wasting terrace (ST) creeks. ST creeks were generally found in marshes with poor drainage due to the low slope of the marsh surface. The low slope may have allowed water to pond on the surface of the marsh creating the persistent anoxic conditions needed to accumulate organic matter. ST creeks probably erode headward at a relatively high rate. Creeks eroding into thin organic rich deposits were classified as weak wasting terrace (WT) creeks, and were generally found in marshes with an intermediate slope and likely an intermediate drainage regime. WT creeks probably erode headward at an intermediate rate. Creeks eroding into marshes with no organic rich deposits were classified as no wasting terrace (NT) creeks. NT creeks were generally found in marshes with relatively good drainage due to the high slope of the marsh surface. NT creeks probably erode headward at a relatively slow rate. Slope appears to be the master variable in control of the pattern and process of headwater erosion. I also suggest an explanation that resolves the dual observations of high sedimentation rates near tidal creeks and the erosion (lengthening and widening) of tidal creeks. |
| General note | Presented to the faculty of the Department of Biology. |
| General note | Advisor: Mark M. Brinson |
| Dissertation note | M.S. East Carolina University 2002 |
| Bibliography note | Includes bibliographical references (leaves 71-78). |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Thèses et écrits académiques. |
Availability
| Library | Location | Call Number | Status | Item Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joyner | University Archives | ASK AT SPECIAL COLLECTIONS DESK | ✔ Available | Request Material |
| Electronic Resources | Access Content Online | ✔ Available |