My Projects

Glaciers

Lakes

Rivers

Research

I use modern field measurements and simple numerical modeling techniques to address a range of geomorphic problems. In particular, I am interested in the tectonic, glaciologic, and geomorphic forces that shape mountainous landscapes. My work also examines sediment transport in fluvial systems, and the role of humans in inducing changes in natural riverine processes. My research focuses on understanding surface processes on the valley scale, and I am generally interested in the last 65 million years of earth history, with an emphasis on the last ~2 million years.

I use methods such as real-time field measurements and numerical models to better understand how ice and water shape the earth’s surface. I enjoy including Macalester students in my research, and collaborating with several colleagues in my field. The primary thrust of my current work is exploring the development of cirque basins through glaciologic and geomorphic field measurements. This work is complemented by numerical modeling to examine the effects of glacial erosion on alpine geomorphology. I am currently using lake cores to examine glacial erosion and environmental change in eastern Glacier National Park over the past 10,000 years. Another project involves the construction of a sediment budget along a segment of a large river, with a focus on understanding the role of a large hydroelectric dam in sediment transport and ecosystem health.