Geomorphic processes and evolution of Buttermilk Valley and selected tributaries, West Valley, New York. Phase II. Fluvial systems and erosion study
Repetitive bar and channel mapping at several scales, clast size and movement measurements, suspended-sediment sampling, and stream gaging of a 5 km reach of Buttermilk Creek and selected tributaries at West Valley, New York, have been carried out to determine short-term depositional and erosional processes as well as long-term valley changes adjacent to the low-level nuclear waste disposal site and other areas of the Western New York Nuclear Service Center. Changes to bar-and-channel geometry in Buttermilk Creed are the result of migration of large transverse bars in equilibrium with large floods, such as occurred during Hurricane Fredric, September 1979. Large amounts of lower terrace gravel are also recycled during these events. Downslope movement of landslides by slumping and earthflow appears to be a continuous process (1.5 m/sup 3/yr/sup -1/). Volumetrically it is a small sediment source except when sudden failure by block gliding deposits a large mass in Buttermilk Creek. Quantitative values of bedload transport, suspended-load sediment transport, and reservoir infill rates compare well with a simple denudation rate (6600 m/sup 3/yr/sup -1/). The middle-to high-level fluvial terraces in Buttermilk Creek are either adjacent to tributary confluences and preserved by an excess of bedload over transport capacity, or survive because the channel is stable on the opposite side of the valley for unknown reasons. The convex longitudinal profile of Franks Creek/Erdman Brook suggests that it is unstable and will continue to downcut rapidly. Valley widening will occur by parallel retreat of slopes. The future lowering of Buttermilk Creek is controlled by bedrock floors in Cattaraugus Creek and lower Buttermilk Creek. However, tributary lowering and widening will continue independent of a change in base-level of Buttermilk Creek.
- Research Organization:
- Earth Surface Research, Inc., Narragansett, RI (USA); Earth Surface Research, Inc., Augusta, ME (USA); New York State Geological Survey, Albany (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 6940493
- Report Number(s):
- NUREG/CR-2862; ON: DE83900125
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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