Methods for the Quantitative Assessment of Channel Processes in Torrents (Steep Streams)

Description: This book presents an overview of methods to quantify channel processes in steep catchments. The understanding and the quantitative description of channel processes provides an essential basis for the planning of protection measures. Channel processes are mostly triggered by rainfall events and associated runoff processes. Apart from possible flood hazards during an intense rainstorm event, a lot of damage is often caused by fine and coarse sediment in the form of fluvial bedload transport or of a debris flow. This work mainly discusses the topics of flow resistance, bedload transport, debris flows and the relation between magnitude and frequency of torrential sediment events.

Review Quotes:

During the last decades, Dieter Rickenmann has studied the processes of solid transports in torrents and mountain streams. His contribution in terms of knowledge is really consequent [....] In this work, the latest tools for computing hydraulics, bedload transport, wood transport and debris flows are recalled [...] and placed in a larger context by considering worldwide literature. This book is really welcome [...] as not many books concern themselves with practical application [....] It will undoubtedly be useful for technicians and engineers in charge of torrent work and management.

Dr. Alain Recking, Senior Researcher at IRSTEA, Grenoble, France

This is a precious guide to understanding flow and sediment transport in mountain streams [...] The book provides [...] an impressive set of quantitative tools, with several examples of application in alpine torrents.

Dr. Frédéric Liebault, Senior Researcher at IRSTEA, Grenoble, France

The entire book expresses concepts and describes methods in a very clear, effective and appropriate form and it provides the reader with all the information needed to independently handle the scientific and technical questions that can arise during their work. It explains the assessment tools of torrent-channel processes, and its content is of the highest quality and completely up-to-date as to the present research position. The book will be of great value to high-level practitioners (hydraulic engineers, geologists, forestry and environmental scientists), researchers and MSc/PhD students.

Prof. Eng. Vincenzo D'Agostino, TESAF Department, Università degli Studi di Padova, Italy