CENTRAL GREAT PLAINS DUNE FIELD DISTRIBUTION AND FLUVIAL SYSTEM CONTROLS

Dune fields are common features within large river valleys of the Central Great Plains. These dune fields are intrinsically linked to their fluvial counterparts in that aeolian reworking of alluvium provided the necessary sediment for formation, and in some cases, subsequent reactivation. The distribution of dune fields within these river systems is not systematic, yet irregular, despite being strongly controlled by prevailing winds at the time of formation. For example, dune fields of the Arkansas River valley are predominately found south of the river reflecting strong northerly winds in the region at the end of the Pleistocene. Despite this pattern, the aerial extent to which sand dunes cover the river valley south of the river is nonuniform and highly discontinuous. It is clear within the river systems of the Central Great Plains that specific geomorphic characteristics result in landscapes conducive to dune field formation whereas others do not––these characteristics also vary geographically within the river valley. This poster explores the distribution of dune fields within two major Central Great Plains river systems: the Arkansas and Cimarron/Beaver/Canadian (CBC) Rivers. This poster also examines the relationship between dune deposits and the specific fluvial characteristic of their parent streams. Variables considered include: basin width, slope, depth to bedrock, sediment size, and others. GIS and remote sensing are used to explore data, which are obtained from multiple sources, including state geological surveys and federal databases. This poster provides new insights into specific geomorphic conditions necessary to support dune field formation.