LINKAGES IN SEDIMENTOLOGY, FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY AND COMMUNITY RESEARCH

Over the past 30 years, rift studies have become increasingly prominent as basin-fill provides geoscientists with unique insight into basin evolution, sedimentology, and geomorphology. Globally, basin' fill primarily archives the rift's development by detailing processes and features such as the interaction of the rift's delivery systems, fault-related topography, base-level variations, and evidence related to long-term climatic changes. In addition, some terrestrial rifts contain fluvial systems and typically host an abundance of aquifers and significant agriculture, especially in areas of the world populated by marginalized groups threatened by climate change and resource overuse. Consequently, the importance of understanding rift basins cannot be understated.

While geoscientists and social scientists have conducted many notable studies on rifts, especially terrestrial rifts, through their respective silos, there is currently a lack of collaboration across the scientific fields. This lack of collaboration not only attributes to some of the unanswered geologic questions associated with fluvial systems and changing landscapes but also can account for why nonethical research may occur in marginalized communities. As a result, this research seeks to revisit landscape evolution in rifts through the integration of fluvial geomorphology and how to conduct community-centered research.

The geographical location, outcrops, sloping landscape, and current Indigenous population of the Española Basin in northern New Mexico, North America, one of the northernmost basins in the Rio Grande Rift, provide a suitable field area for this work. By employing a mixed methodology integrating traditional geology-related fieldwork, digital data analysis, and community research, this research aims to provide an analog for other geoscientists seeking to use interdisciplinary, collaboratory, and more equitable approaches. This research is fundamental to advancing as geoscientists and addressing many of today's global crises surrounding climate change, natural resources, and water management.