Formation of Channel Network on Hillslope and Sediment Yield

Abstract

The process of channel network formation is investigated experimentally. Experiments were conducted on the model slope with the artificial rainfall. Video analyses of these experiments enable us to clarify the mechanism of the network formation. The following are the key points;(1) this network formation is influenced by “rainfall intensity”, “infiltration intensity” and “slope gradient”, (2) erosion due to an overland sheet flow and the deposition of sediment mainly supplied by gully erosion are the foundamental process. The time variation of sediment yield from the downstream end of the slope was also investigated, and is seen to be correlated strongly with the progress of gullies.