Sand Dynamics and Utilization in the Geographical Context of Fluvial Geomorphology and Watershed Hydrology
Amir Abdulazeez
*
Department of Geography, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This review paper delves into both the simple and complex relationships between sand dynamics, geographical landscapes and their significant implications for fluvial geomorphology and watershed hydrology. The conceptual framework classified sand and discussed its long and complex formation and transformation processes. The concepts of sand budget and sand dynamics were also addressed to explain their relevance in determining the amount of material that can be removed from an environment without causing undue erosion or degradation, either at the site or at a nearby location, upstream or downstream. Sand, a fundamental constituent of river systems, plays a pivotal role in shaping river morphology and influencing hydrological processes within watersheds. This next section on sand mining and utilization synthesized a broad spectrum of research, integrating established findings from various geographical contexts to provide a comprehensive understanding of the spatio-temporal nature and magnitude of sand extraction globally. On the effects of sand mining, another section reviewed the geomorphological and hydrological mechanisms governing sand transport, deposition and erosion, elucidating their relationships with fluvial processes. It scrutinizes the influence of geomorphic factors such as channel morphology, sediment supply and discharge variability on sand movement and distribution within river systems. Furthermore, the section explored the diverse impacts of human interventions and anthropogenic activities on sand dynamics, shedding light on the alteration of natural sediment regimes and its repercussions on fluvial ecosystems. Moreover, the review investigated the utilization of sand resources and its physical and socio-economic implications, emphasizing the balance required between exploitation for construction purposes and preserving environmental integrity. Positive and carefully calculated approaches to sand mining leads to little or no consequences on the river ecosystem. The last section discussed management strategies aimed at sustainable sand extraction practices to mitigate adverse effects on river ecosystems and watershed hydrology. A framework by the Indian Ministry of Environment was presented on how to save watersheds from the impacts of anthropogenic activities. In summary, this review consolidated and synthesized the current state of knowledge regarding sand dynamics, identifying critical gaps and understanding avenues for future research for managing sand resources within river landscapes.
Keywords: Sand formation, sand dynamics, sand budget, watershed, geomorphology, hydrology