Geomorphological approaches for the characterization of torrent sediment yield

Abstract

The sedimentary yield of torrents, defined here as the sediment transport that can reach the apex of the alluvial fan, is the resultant of a complex system that integrates the geomorphic dynamics of hillslopes, the coupling between hillslope and stream bed, and the sediment routing in the stream beds. Its characterization implies integrating the multiplicity of processes involved in the internal sedimentary transfers of torrent systems. The geomorphology proposes an indirect way to deal with this issue, by assessing fluxes from forms. The objective of this paper is to present the state of the art of geomorphological approaches and to present some case studies in the French Alps.