Author(s): John R. Gray; Jonathan B. Laronne
Linked Author(s): Jonathan B. Laronne
Keywords: Bedload; Bedload monitoring; Bedload research; International collaboration
Abstract: The state of the science of bedload research and monitoring in the last quarter century has progressed at a much slower rate than that for suspended sediment due to a number of constraints. Most traditional devices still entail routine collection and subsequent analyses of physical samples. The amount and reliability of the bedload data remain limited by the characteristics of the collecting instrument, vagaries associated with manual deployment, a lack of temporal continuity in measurements, and hydraulic and bed conditions. Acceptable and quantifiably accurate measurement of bedload discharge at discrete time intervals, let alone as a time series, is rarely an attainable goal. The accuracy of equations for estimating bedload transport, predicated on data reliability, remains unquantifiable for most conditions. On-going research on bedload-measurement instruments and measuring techniques has been taking place on an ad hoc basis within and between various countries, with little coordination among researchers. Bedload studies often lack adequate funding and adequate local or institutional scientific support. We propose establishing a Bedload Research International Cooperative (BRIC) to address some of these constraints. The BRIC would be by, for, and responsive to the international bedload research and monitoring community. It would provide an international focal point for bedload research, methods development and data sharing. Membership would be free, as would be acquisition of BRIC data. Information compiled and disseminated as part of the BRIC would enable coordination of research to fill critical gaps in our knowledge of bedload processes and measurement techniques. The concept of the BRIC is evolving; suggestions are sought as the concept matures.
Year: 2004