A study of stream bedload – its origin, characteristics and movement with particular reference to two catchments in the Northern Pennines

Abstract

This thesis outlines work undertaken on the bed-load and sediment movement in two small catchments in Northern England, the Lanehead Catchment (Weardale) and the Netherhearth Catchment (Teesdale), which are situated in the Alston Block, the part of the Northern Pennines most widely described by research workers. In section one a general description of the physical features of Northern England is given, with particular attention paid to Weardale and Teesdale within this general context. In this section also, a history of previous research into the problems of sediment movement in Great Britain, Northern America and Western Europe is outlined. Section two contains a description of the methods of field investigation, and the various techniques used in the analysis of the sediments. Attention is focussed on the results obtained from the bed, the bank and the trays. Using stone count analysis and the long axis measurement of material larger than 2 inches, attempt is made to discover the lithplogies of the sediment, and the capability of these streams to move the coarse as well as the fine sediment. This section also includes a brief study of some water samples and an assessment of the material in solution passing a certain point at a certain time. Section three is a discussion of the findings of the whole study in a form of conclusion.