Beaver-pond sequences in northwestern Montana: Morphology and sedimentation
Date
2000-05
Authors
Bigler, Wendy
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Abstract
Beaver ponds are prominent features in many mountain streams; in places occurring as sequences resembling stair steps. Beaver-pond sequence morphology and sedimentation patterns are poorly represented in the literature. I documented the morphology of two beaver-pond sequences in northwestern Montana by describing the sequences, mapping the ponds, and developing longitudinal profiles. I collected data on sediment depth, and took sediment samples along longitudinal and cross-pond transects. I analyzed the data for longitudinal and lateral patterns of sediment texture within ponds, and found no patterns. I further analyzed the data for correlation between distance from the head of each sequence and the percentage of sand in each sediment sample, and found no relationship. Finally, I found that older ponds sequester more sediment than younger ponds. Based on these results, I suggest additional research questions.
Description
Keywords
ponds, rivers, beavers, sedimentation, Montana, Glacier National Park, deposition
Citation
Bigler, W. (2000). Beaver-pond sequences in northwestern Montana: Morphology and sedimentation (Unpublished thesis). Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.