Satellite and aerial imaging in characterization, hydrologic analysis and modeling of inland watersheds and streams

Satellite and Aerial images provide spatial, spectral and temporal information necessary to observe, characterize and parameterize the physical nature of watersheds and streams. Aerial views give a perspective that makes clear the spatial continuity and dependency of distributive physical and ecological systems---a perspective difficult to obtain otherwise.;This dissertation explores, examines and demonstrates the use of satellite and aerial imagery in the characterization and hydrologic analysis of inland Pacific Northwest watersheds and streams. Over 2000 stream miles and hundreds of square kilometers of high resolution digital natural color and color infrared aerial imagery were acquired during a period of seven years in watersheds throughout the Columbia River Basin. The imagery datasets clearly show, that hydrologically relevant watershed and stream characteristics can be efficiently monitored and evaluated with a variety of remote sensing methods. These data and parameterizations in turn support a wide range of environmental assessment and hydrologic modeling work. The data and information derived by remote sensing methods presented are useful in both engineering research and practice.;The dissertation assembles the most relevant details of operational land surface imaging satellites in a form useful to environmental scientists and water resource engineers. Essential remote sensing principles are discussed and sources cited for further and supporting information. Satellite and aerial data preparation and analysis techniques are illustrated with hundreds of color images that convey the benefit and power of remote sensing methods. Fundamental principles are detailed for a highly efficient and unrecognized method of water resources investigation - analytical aerial survey. This method is demonstrated in practical applications and may be the most significant contribution of the research.;Beyond fundamentals, the dissertation demonstrates how satellite and aerial remote sensing methods are applied in the analysis of critical water resources issues: best practice hydrologic modeling, soil erosion, sediment delivery, fluvial morphology, and sediment transport. New engineering models of morphological sediment transport and watershed ephemeral gully erosion are proposed and demonstrated. Numerous opportunities for further research are noted throughout the dissertation.