A systems classification of watersheds and streams

摘要: approved:_______________________________________________ Charles E. Warren Adequate management and scientific investigation of ecosystems depends on classification landscape systems based all significant bio-physical associated cultural properties. The present is a hierarchical design that can be modeled in terms natural system interacting with its level-specific environment. A watershed this context embedded environment organized into, for example, zonal regional systems. at any level classified by capacity the environment, defining temporally scope possible performances relative to components, substrate, climate, biota, culture, water. This theoretical framework examining was translated into methods suitable integrating full capacities watersheds displaying discrete continuous nature stream similarities. Classification land sub-zonal description coupled analysis substrate variables provided an adequate representation capacity. demonstrated empirical correlations components described literature, ability predict soil properties from topographic characteristics facets are formed grid overlaid watershed. Watershed classes were shown good surrogate differentiation classes. Watersheds analyzed facet according several variables. Slope, aspect, altitude, radiation intensity winter solstice equinox, series occurrence effectively sorted These same also revealed more extensive set describing statistical distribution these primary some roughness, form, drainage development. Spatial organization basin factor determining solar slope segments network. gravity model spatial soils potentially useful reach performances, considering as upstream segment, network, system. Systems Streams