Civil Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-8-2022

Abstract

The increase in wildfire frequency and intensity has been driven by the sensitivity of fire regimes to climate changes and fire suppression. Wildfires impact hydrological and environmental processes and ecosystem service due to the mobilization of wildfire debris by precipitation. Data on post-fire water quality dynamics have been measured in a few study cases from burned watersheds where sensors were deployed to monitor non-fire-related water quality issues. This has led to a dearth of data for understanding the effects of wildfire disturbances on fluvial networks. To close the gap in available water quality data, we have created a rapid response plan for mobilizing a team of researchers capable of collecting data necessary to understand the question, how far downstream do wildfire disturbances propagate in fluvial networks? The resulting flowchart and manual create a standardized approach for understanding the water quality impacts of wildfires and other disturbances in fluvial networks.

Keywords

rapid response research, Hermits Peak Fire, New Mexico, Calf Canyon Fire, rapid response protocol

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Civil Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Civil Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Ricardo Gonzalez-Pinzon

Second Committee Member

Dr. Jose M. Cerrato

Third Committee Member

Dr. David J. Van Horn

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