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%