APPLIED GEOMORPHOLOGY
Applied geomorphology is a field of science where
the research outcomes provide information geomorphic
landforms or processes that may be of concern to
society, and where relevant, provides solution to
problems of geomorphic context.
Applied geomorphology examines geomorphic
impacts that affect society, as well as society impact on
geomorphic forms and processes.
The application of geomorphic knowledge to
problem solving spans all of the classic traditions of
geomorphology and is use for human-environmental
solutions across a broad range of geographic, including
coastal shoreline erosion control, landslide risk
assessments, and dam related river management issue.
Continued
Resources, particularly maps, models, and
prediction tools, provided by applied
geomorphologist are useful to scientists, engineers,
consultants, and decision-makers involved with
hazards, land-use planning, natural resources,
environmental management, and global
environment change.
 Applied geomorphologist working independently
or serving on multidisciplinary advisory panels are
well positioned to influence public policy to the
benefit of society and the earth sciences.
Continued
• There has been an increasing recognition of the practical
application of geomorphic principles and the findings of
geomorphological research to human beings who are
influenced by and, in turn, influenced the surface features of
the earth.
• Continuous increase in population has led to pressure on
land resources, extension of agriculture to hilly and marginal
lands resulted in man induced catastrophies like soil
erosion, landslides, sedimentation and floods.
• A proper interpretation of landforms throws light upon the
geologic history, structure, and lithology of a region.
• As geology becomes more specialized there is growing
possibility that the application of geomorphology to
problems of applied geology will be overlooked.
Continued
The role of applied geomorphology relates mainly
to the problems of analyzing and monitoring
landscape forming processes that may arise from
human interference.
Human beings have over time tried to tame and
modify geomorphic/environmental processes to
suit their economic needs.
Geomorphology has diverse application over a
large area of human activity while geomorphologist
may serve more effectively the need of society.
Applied geomorphology types
 GEOMORPHOLOGY AND HYDROLOGY
• 1) Hydrology of lime stone
• 2) Glaciated areas and ground water
 GEOMORPHOLOGY AND MINERAL EXPLORATION
• 1) Surface expression of ore bodies
• 2) Weathering residues
• 3) Epigenetic minerals and unconformities
• 4) Placer deposits
• 5) Oil exploration
 GEOMORPHOLOGY AND ENGINEERING WORKS
• 1) Road construction
• 2) Dam site selection
• 3) Location of sand and gravel pits
Continued
GEOMORPHOLOGY AND MILITARY
GEOLOGY
GEOMORPHOLOGY AND REGIONAL
PLANNING
GEOMORPHOLOGY AND
URBANIZATION
GEOMORPHOLOGY AND COASTAL
ZONE MANAGEMENT
GEOMORPHOLOGY AND HAZARD
MANAGEMENT
Other application of geomorphology
Some of the applications of geomorphic have
been used in applied geomorphology but there are
other fields where geomorphic knowledge of
terrain is more important.
Soil map
Topographic map
Air photographs and satellite imageries
Remote sensing
GIS