Longmont Museum, Longmont
Mapping the Fluvial Hazard Zone: Field and Desktop Methods and Tools
Mapping Fluvial Hazard Zones (FHZs) involves knowledge and interpretation of a wide variety of field and remotely-sensed data pertaining to geology, landform evolution, stream evolution, watershed processes, soils, valley-scale river processes, riparian vegetation, human interventions and hydraulics. As such, the FHZ mapper’s understanding of process-based fluvial geomorphology, especially as it applies to the progressive or acute changes to channels, hillslopes, and floodplains, is critical for FHZ map development. Join us for this one-day, hands-on FHZ mapping short course designed for technical experts seeking to create and/or apply FHZ maps. We will learn more about the components of FHZ maps, decision-making, and documentation during the mapping process as guided by background research, desktop GIS applications, and field observations.
What Will You Learn?
Building off of Module 1 we will apply an understanding of the hydrologic, geomorphic, and biotic context of a stream corridor system to determine geomorphic trajectory and sensitivity. We will then apply this context to delineating FHZ mapping components based on the methods outlined in the Colorado Water Conservation Board FHZ Mapping Protocol (v1.0). We will learn and apply GIS tools for mapping the FHZ and also conduct a field trip in which we will make and integrate field based observations into our FHZ delineations.
Who Should Attend?
Our target audience are technical experts in river corridor management who will be creating or reviewing, interpreting, and applying FHZ maps for stream corridor management. For those without backgrounds in surface hydrology and fluvial geomorphology, attending the Colorado Fluvial Hazard Zone Mapping Program - Module 1 is a strongly recommended prerequisite. Additionally, attendees should be proficient with ESRI’s ArcGIS (ArcMap or ArcGIS Pro).