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Integrated river morphodynamics

Lecturers: prof. Annunziato Siviglia (UNITN/DICAM), dr. David F. Vetsch (ETH Zürich/VAW), prof. Walter Bertoldi (UNITN/DICAM).

Timetable: 24 - 28 June 2024

Objectives: the general objective of the course is to show how the integration of different approaches can lead to a comprehensive insight into river morphodynamics, also in relation with the mutual interactions among flow and sediment transport. Further, the interaction with riparian vegetation will be considered to extend the understanding towards eco-morphodynamics. The course strategy is to focus on specific morphodynamic patterns, particularly alternate bars in channelized streams, a rather popular subset of patterns related with river morphodynamics that can be taken as an example of other patterns evolving at different time and spatial scales. 

Course organization:
The course will concentrate on the numerical aspect and the teaching of BASEMENT. Attendance is restricted to 20 participants. The selection process for attendees will be based on their CV, and it is recommended that they submit it early for consideration. 
The course schedule is available at the following link:
IREM_schedule_2024 

Contents:

  • Basics of theoretical river morphodynamics
  • Analytical theories of river bars: overview of the existing theories and the recent “eco” component
  • Bars in real rivers: processes, forms and implications for river behavior
  • Introduction on the application of the BASEMENT software for morphodynamic simulations in gravel bed rivers in one- and two-dimensions
  • Three projects with step-by-step setup of the numerical model and simulation with BASEMENT: hydrodynamics and bed level evolution in river widening (1D), alternate bar formation in the Alpine Rhine river (2D) and assessment of river morphology during flood (2D)
  • Introduction into river eco-morphodynamics modeling.

At the end of the course, participants are expected to:

  • Have developed an understanding of how to integrate multiple approaches to investigate morphodynamics of river bars
  • Have learned the fundamental elements of a one- and two-dimensional numerical models and how to run numerical simulations with 1D and 2D modules of BASEMENT software 
  • Are able, individually or in small groups, to develop and use tools to predict the main properties of free bars in straight channels.

The course is suitable for graduate students with a background in fluid mechanics, civil and environmental engineering, physical geography, environmental and physical sciences, including young scientists and professionals with an interest in increasing their knowledge.

Required background

A basic knowledge of the following is required:

  • Basic calculus, particularly ordinary and partial differential equations
  • Basic of fluid mechanics, particularly equations for momentum and mass conservation
  • (preferred) Basic knowledge of sediment transport processes and fundamental equations
  • Basic programming skills and knowledge of Python 3 and QGis (for BASEMENT).

Duration: 32 hours (4 credits)

Registration: please send an email and CV to dicamphd [at] unitn.it