| Abstract: | Stream channel changes are often assumed to propagate downstream of the disturbed or urbanized reach, especially where the main controlling variables of discharge and sediment load vary regularly in the downstream direction. A survey of bankfull cross-sectional sizes at 10 stations along a tropical stream shows that downstream propagation of the disturbance may not always occur. Serial regression analysis suggests that a reduction in channel size induced by urbanization did not extend beyond the urbanized reach. Furthermore, local channel change did not alter the downstream log linear trend between channel size and basin area. Apparently, the storage of floodwaters and sediments on floodplains reduced the downstream effects of urbanization. |
