Geography 613
Simon Fraser University
Department of Geography
Spring Semester 2008
Jeremy G. Venditti
Office: RCB 6139
Phone: 604.291.3488
jeremy_venditti@sfu.ca
FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY
This course focuses on environmental fluid and sediment dynamics in river channels and how
these concepts apply to river channel dynamics. The first part of this course will focus on fluid
dynamics and the equations we use to represent fluid flow in rivers. The second part of this
course will focus on sediment transport physics in river channels and the equations the we use to
predict sediment flux and morphologic changes in river channels. Emphasis will be placed on
examination of the primary literature (journal articles and book chapters detailing original
research) and application of our understanding of fluid and sediment dynamics to research
problems.
Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor. Some training in calculus, physics, and
geomorphology/sedimentology is expected. Students should also be aware that computer
literacy (spreadsheets or a programming language) is required to complete the projects.
Required Text: None. Readings will be assigned for discussion in the seminar.
Course Format
This course will consist of a weekly two-hour lecture and a two-hour seminar where students
will discuss a series of publications from the primary literature. Each student will lead 2-3
discussions over the semester. There will also be a two-hour laboratory session designed to
reinforce the lecture materials. Participation in this laboratory is optional for GEOG 613
students. There will be a laboratory session in the first week of classes. There will not be a
seminar session in the first week of classes. Students will undertake a series of three
morphodynamic modeling exercises over the semester that will account for 60% of their final
grade. There are no exams in the class.
Mark Distribution
Modeling exercises and reports 75%
Discussion lead 15%
Participation in discussions: 10%