SEDIMENT FINGERPRINTING: A VALUABLE GEOMORPHIC AND MANAGEMENT TOOL

Sediment fingerprinting is an approach where potential sediment sources in a watershed can be characterized using a number of diagnostic physical and chemical properties. Comparison of these fingerprints with equivalent information for suspended-sediment samples shows the relative importance of potential sources of sediment. Sediment fingerprinting necessitates the identification and establishment of a specific physical and/or chemical property for the sediment that is specific to that part of the watershed. The statistical operations necessary to finalize which tracers are most appropriate in defining sediment sources are critical.

Sediment fingerprinting provides valuable insight into the geomorphic processes operating in a watershed such as how sediment erodes, is transported, and delivered. Both spatial and temporal assessments of sediment sources can be made. For example, sediment sources can be analyzed for different storms, different seasons, and for different parts of the storm hydrograph. Synoptic sampling can provide information on how sources differ throughout a watershed.

Sediment is a major pollutant in United States waterways. In order to reduce sediment inputs, it is necessary to identify the significant sources of sediment. Thus, sediment fingerprinting also provides a valuable tool that can help management agencies identify the significant sources of sediment and develop strategies for reducing sediment input.