Modeling of geomorphic processes in an alpine catchment

Within the SEDAG project the sediment yield of various processes (including soil erosion, rockfall, debris flows, shallow landslides and full-depth avalanches ) is studied in two catchment areas in the Northern Limestone Alps, Germany. As a first step in examining the sediment budget, several models were developed to 1) identify locations at which the processes may start and 2) to determine which areas would be affected. Different approaches are used to determine locations of process initiation, including cartographic modelling, multivariate statistical analysis and more physically based approaches. Process paths are modelled by a combination of single and multiple flowdirection algorithms, which are incorporated in a random walk model. The model can be adjusted to different processes by three calibration parameters. Total process area is determined by Monte Carlo simulation and runout distances are modelled by one or two parameter friction models. First results are presented.